7b. ECOLOGICAL IMPACT (BOTH TERRESTRIAL AND ...

Agreement No. CE 29/2008 (EP)Engineering Investigation and EnvironmentalStudies for Integrated Waste Management FacilitiesPhase 1 – Feasibility Study Environmental Impact Assessment Report

AECOM 7b-1 February 2011

7b. ECOLOGICAL IMPACT (BOTH TERRESTRIAL AND AQUATIC)(ARTIFICIAL ISLAND NEAR SKC)

7b.1 Introduction

7b.1.1.1 This section presents the baseline ecological resource conditions within the study area,and the results of assessment of the potential ecological impacts resulting from the IWMFat an artificial island near SKC. Baseline conditions for ecological components of theterrestrial and marine environment were evaluated based on information from availableliteratures and field surveys conducted for the purposes of this EIA. Measures required tomitigate any identified adverse impacts are recommended, where appropriate.

7b.1.1.2 The proposed Project Site is located at the southwest of the Shek Kwu Chau Island,where reclamation works would take place under this Project. Based on literature review,Shek Kwu Chau supports various species of herpetofauna, and that 3 out of 5 records ofa very rare and endemic reptile species, Bogadek’s Burrowing Lizard (Dibamus bogadeki),has been previously recorded at Shek Kwu Chau (Lazell, 2002). It is thereforeconsidered that reclamation is a suitable option for the siting of the IWMF.

7b.2 Environmental Legislation, Policies, Plans, Standards and Criteria

7b.2.1.1 Guidelines, standards, documents and ordinances / regulations listed in the followingsections were referred to during the course of the ecological impact assessment.

The Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) provides guidelines onthe environmental impact assessment process.

The Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208) provides for the designation andmanagement of country parks and special areas. Country parks are designated forthe purpose of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education.Special Areas are created mainly for the purpose of nature conservation.

The Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) prohibits felling, cutting, burning ordestroying of trees and growing plants in forests and plantations on government land.Related subsidiary regulations prohibit the selling or possession of listed restrictedand protected plant species.

Under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), designated wild animals areprotected from being hunted, whilst their nests and eggs are protected from injury,destruction and removal. All birds and most mammals, including marine cetaceans,are protected under this Ordinance.

The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)provides protection for certain plant and animal species through controlling orprohibiting trade in the species. Certain types of corals are listed in Schedule 1 of theOrdinance, including Blue coral (Heliopora coerulea), Organ pipe corals (familyTubiporidae), Black corals (order Antipatharia), Stony corals (order Scleractinia), Firecorals (family Milleporidae) and Lace corals (family Stylasteridae). Cetaceanincluding whales, dolphins, porpoises, and rorquals are also listed under Schedules 1& 2 of the Ordinance. The import, export and possession of scheduled corals, nomatter dead or living, is restricted.

The amended Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131) provides for the designation ofcoastal protection areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), ConservationArea, Country Park, Green Belt or other specified uses that promote conservation orprotection of the environment.



Chapter 10 of the Hong Kong Planning Standard and Guidelines (HKPSG) coversplanning considerations relevant to conservation. This chapter details the principlesof conservation, the conservation of natural landscape and habitats, historic buildings,archaeological sites and other antiquities. It also describes enforcement issues. Theappendices list the legislation and administrative controls for conservation, otherconservation related measures in Hong Kong and government departments involvedin conservation.

Annex 16 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance – TechnicalMemorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) sets out thegeneral approach and methodology for assessment of ecological impacts arising froma project or proposal, to allow a complete and objective identification, prediction andevaluation of the potential ecological impacts. Annex 8 recommends the criteria thatcan be used for evaluating habitat and ecological impact.

Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) Guidance Note No. 3/2002provides general guidelines for assessing the recommended environmental mitigationmeasures in Environmental Impact Assessment reports.

EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2010 clarifies the requirements of ecological assessmentsunder the EIAO.

EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2010 provides general guidelines for conductingecological baseline surveys in order to fulfill requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

EIAO Guidance Note No. 10/2010 introduces general methodologies forconducting terrestrial and freshwater ecological baseline surveys.

EIAO Guidance Note No. 11/2010 introduces general methodologies for conductingmarine ecological baseline surveys.

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species provides taxonomic, conservation statusand distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN RedList Categories and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk ofextinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlightthose taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction. The IUCN Red List alsoincludes information on taxa that are either close to meeting the threatenedthresholds or that would be threatened were it not for an ongoing taxon-specificconservation programme.

The Key Protected Wildlife Species List details Category I and Category II protectedanimal species under the PRC’s Wild Animal Protection Law.

7b.3 Assessment Methodology

7b.3.1 Study Area

7b.3.1.1 As required under Clause 3.7.5.2 of the EIAO Study Brief, the study area for the purposeof terrestrial ecological impact assessment includes all areas within 500 m from the siteboundary of the land based works areas, or the area likely to be impacted by the Project(Figure 7b.1 for Shek Kwu Chau; Figure 7b.2 for Cheung Sha).

7b.3.1.2 As required under Clause 3.7.5.2 of the EIAO Study Brief, the study area for marineecological impact assessment shall be the same as the water quality impact assessment,covering the Southern, Southern Supplementary, Second Southern Supplementary, North



Western, North Western Supplementary, and Western Buffer Water Control Zones(WCZs), or the area likely to be affected by the Project

7b.3.1.3 After referring to the Water Quality Impact Assessment, in addition to theimplementation of the proposed water quality control measures, with the proposedphasing of works, and low impact construction method, potential adverse impact on waterquality is predicted to be minimised and localized in the vicinity of the Project. Marineecological impact assessment for this study will therefore confine to the area whereadverse water quality impact is predicted within and in vicinity of the Project Site (Figure7b.3).

7b.3.2 Literature Review

7b.3.2.1 In accordance with Clause 3.7.5.4(i) of the EIAO Study Brief, collation and review ofrelevant studies and available information regarding the ecological character of the studyarea were carried out. Evaluation of the collected information was conducted to identifyany information gap relating to the assessment of potential ecological impacts to theterrestrial and marine environment.

7b.3.3 Ecological Surveys

7b.3.3.1 Based on review of the findings from relevant studies and available information, fieldsurveys were carried out to fill information gaps identified, and to verify the informationcollected, in order to fulfill the objectives of this EIA according to Clause 3.7.5.4 (iii) of theEIAO Study Brief. The methodologies for ecological surveys and impact assessmentpresented below were prepared in accordance with the criteria and guidelines in Annexes8 and 16 of the EIAO-TM, EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2010, 10/2010 and 11/2010.

Ecological Survey Programme

Shek Kwu Chau

7b.3.3.2 An eleven-month ecological survey programme was conducted from December 2008 toOctober 2009 covering both dry and wet seasons. The details of the survey programmeare summarized in Table 7b.1.

Table 7b.1 Ecological Survey Programme at Shek Kwu Chau

Shek KwuChau

Dry Season Wet SeasonDec08

Jan09

Feb09

Mar09

Apr09

May09

Jun09

Jul09

Aug09

Sept09

Oct09

Habitat andVegetationSurveyAvifaunaSurvey (Day)AvifaunaSurvey (Night)Butterfly,Dragonfly andDamselflySurveyHerpetofaunaSurvey (Day)HerpetofaunaSurvey (Night)WoodenCover Board



Shek KwuChau

Dry Season Wet SeasonDec08

Jan09

Feb09

Mar09

Apr09

May09

Jun09

Jul09

Aug09

Sept09

Oct09

SurveyTerrestrialMammalSurvey (Day)TerrestrialMammalSurvey (Night)FreshwaterCommunitySurveyIntertidalSurveyDive SurveyBenthosSurveyMarineMammalSurvey

Cheung Sha

7b.3.3.3 A six-month ecological survey programme was conducted from August 2009 to January2010 covering both dry and wet seasons. The details of the survey programme aresummarized in Table 7b.2.

Table 7b.2 Ecological Survey Programme for Cheung Sha

Habitat Mapping and Vegetation Survey

7b.3.3.4 Habitats within the study area were identified, sized and mapped. Ecologicalcharacteristics of each habitat type including size, vegetation type, and species present,dominant species found, species diversity and abundance, community structure,seasonal patterns and inter-dependence of the habitats and species, and presence of anyfeatures of ecological importance were defined and characterized. Representative

Cheung ShaWet Season Dry Season

Aug 09 Sept 09 Oct 09 Nov 09 Dec 09 Jan 10Habitat and Vegetation SurveyAvifauna Survey (Day)Avifauna Survey (Night)Butterfly, Dragonfly and Damselfly SurveyHerpetofauna Survey (Day)Herpetofauna Survey (Night)Terrestrial Mammal Survey (Day)Terrestrial Mammal Survey (Night)Freshwater Community SurveyBenthos SurveyIntertidal SurveyDive Survey



photographs of the habitat types and of important ecological features identified weretaken. A desktop review of aerial photographs and maps of a suitable scale (1:1000 to1:5000) showing the types and locations of habitats within 500 m from the Projectboundary was conducted. The habitat maps were then verified during ground truthing.

7b.3.3.5 Vegetation surveys were conducted throughout dry and wet seasons. Diversity anddominance of plant species present in different habitat types were recorded by directobservation. The location of any plant species of conservation interest was recorded.Identification of flora species and status in Hong Kong was made with reference to HongKong Herbarium (2004) and Corlett et al. (2000).

Avifauna Survey

7b.3.3.6 Avifauna species present and relative abundance of species in different habitats weresurveyed visually and aurally by walk transects, as adopted in terrestrial ecologicalsurveys (Figure 7b.4 for Shek Kwu Chau; and Figure 7b.5 for Cheung Sha). Thelocation of any avifauna species of conservation interest encountered was recorded,along with notable behaviour (e.g. breeding behaviour such as nesting and presence ofrecently fledged juveniles, roosting, and feeding activities). Night surveys were alsoconducted to record nocturnal avifauna. Ornithological nomenclature in this report followsCarey et al. (2001).

Dragonfly, Damselfly and Butterfly Survey

7b.3.3.7 Dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies within the study area were surveyed along thewalk transects adopted in terrestrial ecological surveys (Figure 7b.4 for Shek Kwu Chau;and Figure 7b.5 for Cheung Sha). Taking into consideration the potentialhabitats/breeding areas of dragonfly species near the pond and stream areas, specialattention was paid to these habitats for sightings of dragonfly and damselfly species.Relative abundance of dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly encountered was recorded.Nomenclature of dragonfly and damselfly follows Wilson (2003a), and nomenclature ofbutterfly follows Lo and Hui (2004).

Herpetofauna Survey

7b.3.3.8 Herpetofauna within the study area were surveyed along the walk transects adopted interrestrial ecological surveys (Figure 7b.4 for Shek Kwu Chau; and Figure 7b.5 forCheung Sha). Taking into consideration the potential habitats/breeding areas ofherpetofauna species near the pond and stream areas, and in vegetated areas with leaflitter, special attention was paid to these habitats for sightings of herpetofauna species.Potential microhabitats (e.g. leaf litter, underneath of rotten logs) were searched. Allreptiles and amphibians sighted were recorded.

7b.3.3.9 Amphibian surveys were conducted whenever possible on evening following or duringperiods of rainfall, focusing on areas suitable for amphibians. Records of callingamphibians formed the bulk of the data collected, but this was also supplemented whenpossible by visual observation of eggs, tadpoles and adult frogs and toads.

7b.3.3.10 During reptile surveys, careful searches of appropriate microhabitats and refugia wereundertaken. All reptiles observed were identified. In addition to active searching,observation of exposed, basking or foraging reptiles was also recorded.

7b.3.3.11 Herpetofauna surveys were conducted during both daytime and night-time.Nomenclature of amphibian follows Chan et al. (2005), and reptile follows Karsen et al.(1998).

7b.3.3.12 Additional cover board surveys were further conducted in Shek Kwu Chau between Mayand October 2009. Cover board is an artificial cover object that attracts and allows



various species of amphibians and reptiles to use it as a refuge. Cover board isespecially useful for sampling of fossorial species and in habitats with limited naturalcovers.

7b.3.3.13 In Shek Kwu Chau, the very rare and endemic Bogadek’s Burrowing Lizard (Dibamusbogadeki) was previously recorded. While this species is known to live in soil, or undersheltered microhabitats such as rotting wood lying on the forest floor, cover boards weredeployed in areas with their preferred environmental conditions. A total of 25 woodencover boards of 80 cm x 80 cm were deployed at different habitats including shrubland,plantation, developed area, and near pond and watercourse (Figure 7b.7). The boardswere placed on natural areas with flat soil surface. Warning signs were hung near thedeployed boards to minimise potential human disturbance. During each of the coverboard surveys, each of the boards was lifted to check for the potential presence of anyhiding amphibians and reptiles. Cover boards were deployed on field on 18 May 2009.Checking of the cover boards were conducted on 29 May, 19 June, 22 June, 29 June, 28July, and 16 October 2009.

Mammal Survey

7b.3.3.14 Mammal surveys were conducted along the walk transects adopted in terrestrialecological surveys, as well as in areas which may be potentially utilized by terrestrialmammals during day and night time. The surveys focused on searching for field signssuch as droppings, footprints, diggings or burrows left by terrestrial mammals. Mammalidentification was made to the lowest possible taxon from the field signs. In addition, anymammal directly observed was also identified. Locations of mammal species ofconservation interest were recorded. Nomenclature of mammal follows Shek (2006).

Freshwater Community Survey

7b.3.3.15 Freshwater fish and invertebrate communities were surveyed via active searching anddirect observation at watercourse sections within the study area during dry and wetseasons at Shek Kwu Chau (2 watercourses) and Cheung Sha (2 watercourses) (Figure7b.4 for Shek Kwu Chau; Figure 7b.5 for Cheung Sha). Boulders within the watercoursewere turned over to locate any aquatic animals beneath. Hand net was used to collectorganisms along the streams. Organisms encountered were recorded and identified tothe lowest possible taxon level.

Intertidal Survey

7b.3.3.16 Survey on intertidal communities were conducted by line-transect method (Figure 7b.4for Shek Kwu Chau; and Figure 7b.5 for Cheung Sha), in order to establish an ecologicalprofile on the intertidal habitats located in the vicinity of the Project Site. In order todetermine representative locations for transect deployment, a walk-through survey wasconducted to actively search for, and find out any intertidal flora and epifauna along theshore. A general database on species composition and their relative occurrence in thesurvey location was established. It would help to assess whether the sampling exercisein the later quantitative survey has collected representative data (e.g. the number andtype of species encountered) and whether the sampling effort is deemed adequate. Atotal of 2-3 surveyors were deployed and approximately 30-45 minutes was spent onwalk-through survey.

7b.3.3.17 After the walk-through survey, quantitative survey was conducted using line transectmethod. A total of 6 representative locations were chosen at Shek Kwu Chau and 4 werechosen at Cheung Sha, covering areas within and outside the project area. One linetransect was deployed at each of the survey locations. The transects were laidperpendicular to shoreline from high water mark down to low water mark during the lowtide period (tide level below 1 m). Along each transect, standard ecological samplingquadrats (0.5m x 0.5m) were laid at 1 m intervals. Intertidal epifauna and flora within



each quadrat were identified and enumerated. In general, mobile fauna were counted interms of abundance per unit area. Sessile organisms such as barnacles, oysters andalgae were estimated in terms of percentage cover per fixed area. Intertidal fauna wereidentified to species level as far as possible. Representative photographs of intertidalhabitat were also taken (Appendix 7b.1 for Shek Kwu Chau; Appendix 7b.12 forCheung Sha).

Dive Survey

7b.3.3.18 Spot-check dive surveys covering the coastal areas at Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Shawere conducted to locate the presence of corals (Figure 7b.4 for Shek Kwu Chau; andFigure 7b.5 for Cheung Sha). Subtidal substrata (hard substratum seabed etc.) alongthe proposed spot-check dive routes were surveyed for any presence of coralcommunities, including hard corals (order Scleractinia), octocorals (sub-classOctocorallia) and black corals (order Antipatharia).

7b.3.3.19 Spot-check dive routes with signs of corals observed were further surveyed by a moredetailed Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) with reference to DeVantier et al. (1998)(Appendix 7b.2). Sixteen 100-m REA transects were designed at the coasts of ShekKwu Chau (Figure 7b.9), based on the preliminary results from the spot-check dives. Foreach transect, the locations (GPS) of dive routes, distance surveyed, number of colonies,sizes and types of corals, their coverage, abundance, condition, translocation feasibilityand the conservation status of coral species in Hong Kong waters were recorded andrepresentative photographs were taken (Appendix 7b.3).

Benthos Survey

7b.3.3.20 To survey marine soft bottom benthic fauna, grab sampling of seabed sediment wascarried out once during both wet and dry seasons. Five benthos sampling sites wereproposed within and near the proposed reclamation area (Figure 7b.4); and four benthossampling sites were proposed along the proposed submarine cable alignment (Figure7b.6).

7b.3.3.21 At each sampling site, three replicates of grab samples over a 0.1 m2 area seabedsubstrate were collected using a van Veen grab. Samples were then sieved through 0.5mm sieves and stained with Rose Bengal. Collected organisms were counted, weighedand identified to the lowest practicable taxon as possible.

7b.3.3.22 Abundance, biomass, species diversity H’ and evenness J were calculated for pooleddata, using the formulae:

H’= - ( Ni / N ) ln ( Ni / N ) ; and

J = H’ / ln S

where S is the total number of species in the sample, N is the total number of individuals,and Ni is the number of individuals of the ith species.

Marine Mammal Survey

7b.3.3.23 Finless Porpoise and Chinese White Dolphin are the key marine species withconservation interests within the proposed Project Site at Southeast Lantau waters.Vessel-based visual surveys covering the Southeast Lantau waters were conducted tocollect systematic data on marine mammals, including Chinese White Dolphin andFinless Porpoise. The marine mammal survey methodology was in consistency with thatadopted by the Hong Kong Cetacean Research Project (HKCRP) long-term researchprogram (Hung, 2005a, 2005b, 2006, 2007, 2008a, 2009; Jefferson, 2000; Jefferson et al.,2002a).



7b.3.3.24 Between December 2008 and May 2009, a 6-month study covering both dry and wetseasons was conducted along the line-transects, covering the whole of Southeast Lantausurvey area of the long-term marine mammals monitoring programme by AFCD, in whichthe proposed Project Site would be located (Figure 7b.8). Two experienced observers (adata recorder and a primary observer) were involved in the on-effort survey team. Thesurvey vessel moved along the transect lines at a constant speed of 13-15 km per hour.The data recorder searched for sightings of marine mammals with unaided eye and filledout the datasheets; while the primary observer searched with a pair of 7x50 Bruntonmarine binoculars. Both observers searched the sea ahead of the vessel, between 270o

and 90o (in relation to the bow, which is defined as 0o). During on-effort survey periods,the survey team recorded effort data including time, position (latitude and longitude),weather conditions (Beaufort sea state and visibility), and distance travelled in eachseries (a continuous period of search effort) with the assistance of a professional GPS(Garmin Geko 201). Two additional experienced observers were available on the boat towork in shift (i.e. rotate every 30 minutes) in order to minimize fatigue of the survey teammembers.

7b.3.3.25 When dolphins or porpoises were sighted, the survey team ended the survey effort, andimmediately recorded the initial sighting distance and angle of the dolphin group from thesurvey vessel, as well as the sighting time and position. Then the research vesseldiverted from its course to approach the animals for species identification, group sizeestimation, group composition assessment, behavioural observations, and collection ofidentification photos.

7b.3.3.26 The perpendicular distances (PSD) of the dolphin groups to the transect line werecalculated from the initial sighting distance and angle. The recorded data can beanalyzed by the established computer programmes (e.g. DISTANCE programme,ArcView GIS) for long-term monitoring of population status including trends in abundance,distribution and habitat use.

7b.4 Description of the Environment

7b.4.1 Area of Conservation Interest

7b.4.1.1 There are no recognized sites of conservation importance (such as Country Parks, Sitesof Special Scientific Interest, Coastal Protection Area or Conservation Area) in the studyarea of Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha. Other ecologically important habitats identifiedwithin the study area include habitats for marine mammals and coral communities, as wellas a potential important fish spawning and nursery ground.

7b.4.2 Habitat and Vegetation

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.2.1 Studies on the habitat and vegetation at Shek Kwu Chau are scarce. Between 1960 and1961, Shek Kwu Chau was burnt over for the construction of the Society for the Aid andRehabilitation of Drug Abusers (SARDA). Since then, shrubs, palms, sedges and tallgrasses had re-colonised the island; and reforestation of exotic species, mostly Acaciaconfusa, has increased the tree cover of the island (Lazell, 2002).

7b.4.2.2 During a detailed vegetation survey conducted in 1996, a total of 275 species of florawere recorded on the whole of Shek Kwu Chau (Chen et al., 1996). Shrubland wasidentified as the dominant habitat on Shek Kwu Chau, with coverage of over 80% (ibid.).The most common species recorded include Litsea glutinosa, L. rotundifolia var.oblongifolia, Sterculia lanceolata, and Microcos paniculata; whereas exotic species



including Cerbera manghas, Scaevola sericea, Phoenix hanceanum and Pandanus spp.were also common (ibid.).

Recent Survey Results

7b.4.2.3 A total of 9 habitat types were identified during the ecological surveys, includingshrubland, plantation, developed area, pond, watercourse, rocky shore, subtidal softbottom, subtidal hard bottom, and coastal / marine waters (Figure 7b.1 and 7b.3).

7b.4.2.4 Representative photographs of habitats are given in Appendix 7b.1. Vegetationrecorded within the study area is listed in Appendix 7b.5. No flora species recorded inthe recent surveys was rare or considered of conservation interest.

7b.4.2.5 The following table presents the sizes of habitats within the study area. Furtherdescription of habitat types recorded in the study area is given in the followings sections.

Table 7b.3 Habitats Recorded within the Study Area at Shek Kwu Chau

Habitat Type Area (ha)Shrubland 38.2Plantation 0.7Developed Area 2.7Pond 0.3Watercourse 0.04

Length of W1: 51 m; W2: 110 mRocky Shore 2.3Subtidal Area and Coastal / Marine Waters(Southern Water Control Zone)

6,610

Shrubland

7b.4.2.6 Shrubland habitat occupies the majority of the study area and supports the most diversevegetation species within the study area. Some of the commonly recorded speciesinclude tree species Bridelia tomentosa, Celtis sinensis, and Macaranga tanarius; shrubspecies Ilex asprella; herb species Bidens alba, and Dicranopteris pedata; and climberspecies Bauhinia championii. No rare plant species was recorded during the surveys.With a total of 114 species recorded, the diversity of vegetation species at shrubland isconsidered to be high.

Plantation

7b.4.2.7 Plantation habitat within the study area was mainly found on modified slopes surroundingthe football court, near developed habitat, and along roadsides. These areas weredominated by commonly planted exotic tree species Acacia confusa and Delonix regia.Other species that were also commonly recorded include tree species Mallotus apelta,and M. paniculatus; shrub species Litsea glutinosa; and climber species Pueraria spp.No rare plant species was recorded. With a total of 30 species recorded, the diversity ofvegetation species at plantation is considered to be low.

Developed Area

7b.4.2.8 Developed habitat refers to highly disturbed areas with constant and intensive humandisturbance, such as the residence buildings, football court, and paved roads. Some ofthe commonly recorded species include shrub species Duranta erecta and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis; and herb species Wedelia trilobata and Oxalis corniculata. Other recorded treespecies include Sapindus saponaria and Ficus elastica. No rare plant species was



recorded. With a total of 14 species recorded, the diversity of vegetation species atdeveloped area is considered to be very low.

Pond

7b.4.2.9 The pond habitat is used as a reservoir by the residence of the island and is surroundedby shrubland. The exotic aquatic herb, Nymphaea sp., was observed over the pondsurface. Some of the vegetation species recorded around the pond habitat include treespecies Macaranga tanarius and Thevetia peruviana; shrub species Sterculia lanceolata;herb species Pteris semipinnata and Colocasia esculenta; and climber species Mikaniamicrantha. No rare plant species was recorded. With a total of 22 species recorded, thediversity of vegetation species around pond is considered to be low.

Watercourse

7b.4.2.10 The identified watercourses (W1 and W2) are considered to be natural with riparianvegetation. Some of the vegetation recorded along the watercourses include tree speciesFicus virens and Macaranga tanarius; shrub species Boehmeria nivea and Hedychiumcoronarium; herb species Acorus tatarinowii, Alocasia odora, Commelina spp. andclimber species Lygodium scandens. No rare plant species was recorded. With a total of29 species recorded, the diversity of vegetation species along watercourse is consideredto be low.

Rocky Shore

7b.4.2.11 Shek Kwu Chau is surrounded by natural rocky shore. The shore is composed of largeboulders in various forms. The shore is similar to other typical exposed rocky shores inHong Kong. Some of the boulders were covered with encrusting algae Hildenbrandiaoccidentalis; erect algae Gelidium pusillum, Coralline algae, Hincksia mitchelliae,Porphyra suborbiculata, and Ulva sp.; and cyanobacteria Chroococcus sp. and Kyrtuthrixmaculans.

Subtidal Hard and Soft Bottom

7b.4.2.12 The subtidal hard bottom habitat is composed of bedrock sloping from the Shek KwuChau Island. The subtidal soft bottom habitat is composed of coarse sandy material andgravels; the substrate becomes finer and muddier towards the sea. The seabedsubstratum found near Shek Kwu Chau is similar to the substratum found across theSouthern Water Control Zone.

Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.2.13 The most relevant EIA study which partly overlaps with this Project’s study area was theEIA-075/2002 Improvement to Tung Chung Road between Lung Tseng Tau and CheungSha (HyD, 2002). Dominated tree species recorded include native species Ficusmicrocarpa, Litsea glutinosa, Microcos paniculatus, Celtis tetrandra and Brideliatomentosa; whereas as fruit tree such as Dimocarpus longan and Litchi chinensis werealso found near village houses.


7b.4.2.14 A total of 7 habitat types were identified during the ecological surveys, includingshrubland, developed area, watercourse, and rocky shore, subtidal soft bottom habitat,subtidal hard bottom habitat and coastal / marine waters (Figure 7b.2 and 7b.3).



7b.4.2.15 Representative photographs of habitats are given in Appendix 7b.12. Photographs ofplant species of conservation interest are presented in Appendix 7b.13. Vegetationrecorded within the study area is listed in Appendix 7b.14.

7b.4.2.16 The following table presents the sizes of habitats within the study area. Furtherdescription of habitat types recorded in the study area is given in the followings sections.

Table 7b.4 Habitats Recorded within the Study Area at Cheung Sha

Habitat Type Area (ha)Shrubland 18.2Developed Area 8.2Watercourse 0.2

Length of W1 499 m; W2: 103 mRocky Shore 0.8Subtidal Area and Coastal / Marine Waters(Southern Water Control Zone)

6,610

Shrubland

7b.4.2.17 Shrubland habitat occupies the majority of the study area and supports the most diversevegetation species within the study area. Some of the commonly recorded speciesinclude tree species Bridelia tomentosa and Bischofia javanica; shrub species Alangiumchinense and Sageretia thea; and herb species Ipomoea pes-caprae, Asclepiascurassavica and Crotalaria pallida.

7b.4.2.18 One locally protected species, Aquilaria sinensis, was recorded within the study area(Appendix 7b.13). With a total of 99 species recorded, the diversity of vegetationspecies at shrubland is considered to be moderate to high.

Developed Area

7b.4.2.19 Developed habitat refers to highly disturbed areas with constant and intensive humandisturbance, such as the villages and paved roads. Some of the vegetation speciesrecorded within developed area include tree species Acacia mangium and Eucalyptusspp.; shrub species Codiaeum variegatum and Duranta erecta; herb species Euphorbiahirta and Hedyotis auricularia; and climber species Parthenocissus dalzielii. No rare plantspecies was recorded. With a total of 62 species recorded, the diversity of vegetationspecies along watercourse is considered to be moderate.

Watercourse

7b.4.2.20 The identified watercourses (W1 and W2) are considered to be natural with riparianvegetation. Some of the vegetation species recorded along the watercourses include treespecies Melaleuca quinquenervia; shrub species Daphniphyllum spp. and Colocasiaesculenta; herb species Alpinia hainanensis and Ludwigia perennis; and climber speciesCanavalia maritima and Asparagus cochinchinensis.

7b.4.2.21 One rare plant species, Ceratopteris thalictroides, was recorded near W2, which is aseasonal stream. With a total of 30 species recorded, the diversity of vegetation speciesalong watercourse is considered to be low.

Rocky Shore

7b.4.2.22 The majority of the shore within the study area is natural rocky shore. The shore iscomposed of large boulders in various forms. The shore is similar to other typicalexposed rocky shores in Hong Kong. Some of the boulders were covered with encrusting



algae Hildenbrandia rubra and Pseudulvella applanata; erect algae Ulva spp., Corallinaspp. and Hincksia mitchelliae; and cyanobacteria Chroococcus sp. and Kyrtuthrixmaculans.

7b.4.2.23 Some of the recorded backshore vegetation in the vicinity of the rocky shore include treespecies Cerbera manghas and Hibiscus tiliaceus; shrub species Pandanus tectorius andPsychotria asiatica; herb species Ipomoea pes-caprae and Stachytarpheta jamaicensis;and climber species Ficus pumila and Gymnema sylvestre. No rare plant species wasrecorded at the backshore vegetation.

Subtidal Hard and Soft Bottom

7b.4.2.24 The subtidal hard bottom habitat is composed of natural bedrock and boulders. Thesubtidal soft bottom habitat is composed of mud and sand. The seabed substratum foundnear Cheung Sha is similar to the substratum found across the Southern Water ControlZone.

Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha

Coastal / Marine Waters

7b.4.2.25 The study area covers the Southern Water Control Zone. Marine water quality monitoringdata routinely collected by EPD were used to establish the baseline condition. The EPDmonitoring data collected in 2008 are summarised in Table 7b.5 (EPD, 2009). The 4selected stations close to the Project Site in Southern WCZ include SM12, SM13, SM17and SM6. The locations of these monitoring stations are shown in Figure 5b.1.

Table 7b.5 Marine Water Quality Condition for Southern WCZ

ParametersLantau Island (South) West Lamma WPCO WQO

(in marine waters)SM12 SM13 SM17 SM6Temperature( )

23.0(13.7 – 28.9)

23.0(13.9 – 29.0)

22.8(14.1 – 27.6)

23.0(14.1 – 27.1)

Not more than 2 in dailytemperature range

Salinity 29.5(14.9 – 32.9)

29.4(13.9 – 32.9)

31.2(25.5 – 33.8)

30.8(24.3 – 33.1)

Not to cause more than10% change

DissolvedOxygen (DO)(mg/L)

DepthAverage

6.8(4.5 –9.8)

6.8(4.7 – 9.8)

6.4(3.5 – 10.0)

6.5(4.7 – 9.7)

Not less than 4 mg/L for90% of the samples

Bottom 6.6(3.0 – 9.7)

6.7(3.3 – 9.6)

6.0(2.1 – 10.0)

5.5(1.1 – 9.5)

Not less than 2 mg/L for90% of the samples

DissolvedOxygen (DO)(% Saturation)

DepthAverage

93(63 – 121)

93(66 – 122)

88(549 – 123)

90(66 – 118)

Not Available

Bottom 91(43 – 119)

92(48 – 118)

82(30 – 122)

76(16 – 116)

Not Available

pH 8.1(7.7 – 8.3)

8.2(7.7 – 8.4)

8.1(7.7 – 8.3)

8.2(7.7 – 8.5)

6.5 - 8.5 (±0.2 from naturalrange)

Secchi Disc Depth(m)

1.8(1.0 – 3.2)

1.9(1.0 – 2.4)

2.1(1.2 – 2.8)

2.0(0.9 – 3.3)

Not Available

Turbidity(NTU)

13.5(8.8 – 21.9)

11.7(7.9 – 19.5)

11.1(5.8 – 29.8)

9.4(4.3 – 19.0)

Not Available

Suspended Solids (SS)(mg/L)

11.6(2.8 – 21.0)

8.6(3.0 – 16.7)

5.6(2.7 – 12.3)

5.8(2.1 – 9.9)

Not more than 30%increase

5-day Biochemical OxygenDemand (BOD5) (mg/L)

0.7(0.2 – 1.8)

0.7(0.2 – 1.5)

0.6(0.1 – 1.5)

0.7(0.1 – 1.4)

Not Available

Ammonia Nitrogen (NH3-N)(mg/L)

0.07(0.02 – 0.21)

0.06(0.01 – 0.21)

0.03(0.01 – 0.10)

0.04(0.01 – 0.10)

Not Available

Unionised Ammonia (UIA)(mg/L)

0.004(<0.001 – 0.018)

0.004(<0.001 – 0.016)

0.002(<0.001 – 0.005)

0.003(<0.001 – 0.007)

Not more than 0.021 mg/Lfor annual mean

Nitrite Nitrogen (NO2-N)(mg/L)

0.041(0.006 – 0.160)

0.038(0.005 – 0.150)

0.022(0.002 – 0.046)

0.038(0.007 – 0.173)

Not Available

Nitrate Nitrogen (NO3-N)(mg/L)

0.194(0.019 – 0.940)

0.193(0.019 – 0.977)

0.126(0.009 – 0.537)

0.159(0.010 – 0.628)

Not Available

Total Inorganic Nitrogen(TIN) (mg/L)

0.31(0.07 – 1.31)

0.29(0.06 – 1.33)

0.18(0.04 – 0.65)

0.24(0.04 – 0.87)

Not more than 0.1 mg/L forannual mean



ParametersLantau Island (South) West Lamma WPCO WQO

(in marine waters)SM12 SM13 SM17 SM6Total Kjeldahl NitrogenTKN) (mg/L)

0.27(0.15 – 0.46)

0.26(0.14 – 0.42)

0.20(0.15 – 0.27)

0.22(0.14 – 0.27)

Not Available

Total Nitrogen (TN)(mg/L)

0.51(0.19 – 1.56)

0.49(0.17 – 1.53)

0.35(0.17 – 0.80)

0.41(0.18 – 1.04)

Not Available

OrthophosphatePhosphorus (OrthoP) (mg/L)

0.016(0.004 – 0.028)

0.014(0.005 – 0.028)

0.012(0.005 – 0.021)

0.013(0.008 – 0.025)

Not Available

Total Phosphorus (TP)(mg/L)

0.03(0.02 – 0.05)

0.03(0.02 – 0.05)

0.03(0.02 – 0.03)

0.03(0.02 – 0.04)

Not Available

Silica (as SiO2)(mg/L)

1.3(0.1 – 4.9)

1.3(0.1 – 5.2)

1.0(0.2 – 2.9)

1.1(0.3 – 3.4)

Not Available

Chlorophyll-a( g/L)

3.5(1.2 – 10.4)

3.2(0.9 – 8.3)

2.3(0.6 – 7.0)

4.9(1.2 – 12.7)

Not Available

E. coli(cfu/100 mL)

21(2 – 200)

5(1 – 81)

2(1 – 23)

2(1 – 150)

Not Available

Faecal Coliforms(cfu/100 mL)

43(3 – 480)

9(1 – 300)

3(1 - 70)

4(1 – 330)

Not Available

Note:1. Data source: Marine Water Quality in Hong Kong in 2008 (EPD, 2009).2. Unless otherwise specified, data presented are depth-averaged values calculated by taking the means of

three depths: Surface, Mid-depth, Bottom.3. Data presented are annual arithmetic means of the depth-averaged results except for E. coli and faecal

coliforms which are annual geometric means.4. Data in brackets indicate the ranges.

7b.4.2.26 The Southern WCZ is directly open to the South China Sea. It is a large expanse of opensea and enjoys good levels of dissolved oxygen (DO). Nevertheless, the western part isaffected by the discharge from Pearl River, in particular during the wet summer monthswhen the river's fresh water flow increases. Higher levels of SS and TIN are oftenrecorded at the western stations than those at the east. The situation reverses forsalinity.

7b.4.2.27 According to the latest Marine Water Quality Report 2008 (EPD, 2009), the temperature,salinity and dissolved oxygen concentration (bottom layer) in the surrounding waterranged between 13.9-29 , 13.9-32.9 ppt and 3.3-9.6 mg/L respectively in 2008 (datafrom the closest water quality monitoring station SM13). Shek Kwu Chau is underadverse influence of Pearl River runoff in wet season (EPD, 2009; EPD, 2006). Highconcentration of TIN was recorded and that the compliance rate with water qualityobjective was consistently low from 1998 to 2007 (EPD, 2006; 2007; 2008). The SS levelranged from 2.8 to 21.0 mg/L and 3.0 to 16.7 mg/L at the closest water quality monitoringstation SM12 and SM13 in 2008, respectively. However, full compliance with the waterquality objectives for dissolved oxygen, unionized ammonia and E. coli levels wereachieved in 2008 (EPD, 2009). No hypoxia has ever occurred at Shek Kwu Chau.

Spawning and Nursery Ground for Commercial Fisheries Resources

7b.4.2.28 According to the “Fisheries Resources and Fishing Operations in Hong Kong Waters”(AFD, 1998), nursery ground of commercial fisheries resources was identified atNortheast Waters, Port Shelter, Lamma Island and South Lantau; whilst spawning groundof commercial fisheries resources were identified at Northeast Waters, Eastern Waters,Southeast Hong Kong in Mirs Bay, South Lamma, South Cheung Chau, NortheastLantau, and South Lantau.

7b.4.2.29 The footprint of the previously identified spawning and nursery grounds at South Lantauwaters covers the proposed Project Site at Shek Kwu Chau and submarine cablealignment. During the fisheries baseline surveys (ichthyoplankton and post-larvae)conducted under EIA-125/2006 Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Receiving Terminal andAssociated Facilities: Part 2 South Soko (CLP, 2006), two sampling stations were locatedat the offshore waters at Shek Kwu Chau (SKC1 and SKC2). The survey resultsconcluded that the densities for fish larva and eggs at all sampling stations at South andWest Lantau waters were generally low; the degree of difference in densities between



stations were small, and therefore it was concluded that there was no observabledifference in fish larvae and egg densities between the identified spawning and nurserygrounds at southern waters of Hong Kong, and the waters at Western Lantau, which wasnot identified to be important spawning and nursery grounds (ibid.).

7b.4.2.30 In addition, important nursery areas for fish can be identified by commercial fry collectionareas. Fry collection in Hong Kong has diminished in scale in recent years. Based onthe most recent 2006 Port Survey Report (AFCD, 2009b), the Project Site and the area inthe vicinity that may be affected by water quality impacts are not major areas of frycollection.

7b.4.3 Avifauna

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.3.1 Literature on avifauna at Shek Kwu Chau is very scarce. An Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubobubo) was previously recorded at Shek Kwu Chau (HKU, 1998). Eurasian Eagle Owl is ascarce resident but is widely distributed in Hong Kong, and it favours open hillsides andoffshore islands (AFCD, 2006a; Viney et al., 2005).

7b.4.3.2 Records of nesting White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) have also beenmade at Shek Kwu Chau (AFCD, 2010a). White-bellied Sea Eagle (WBSE) is uncommonin Hong Kong and favours coastal areas and offshore islands (ibid.). Shek Kwu Chauwas reported to be one of the 17 breeding sites for WBSE in Hong Kong, where abreeding pair has been found since 2006, with a territory size of about 15.8 km (ibid.). Upuntil the survey season in 2009/2010, three active breeding years have been recorded atShek Kwu Chau (ibid.; AFCD, 2010d). The WBSE nest was recorded at the southwest ofShek Kwu Chau, located approximately 130 m in-land from the shore, and 60 m aboveground level within hillside shrubland habitat (AFCD, 2009c).

7b.4.3.3 The aforementioned two species are considered as rare and indeterminate in the ChinaRed Data Book respectively. Both are protected under the local regulations (Table 7b.6).

Table 7b.6 Avifauna Species of Conservation Interest Previously Recorded atShek Kwu Chau

Common Name (1) Scientific Name Distribution inHong Kong (2)

Level ofConcern

(3)

IUCN RedList (4)

Eurasian Eagle Owl(5)

Bubo bubo Scarce resident.Widely distributed

in Hong Kong.

RC -

White-bellied SeaEagle (5)

Haliaeetusleucogaster

Uncommon (RC) -

Note:1. All wild birds are Protected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)2. AFCD (2006a)3. Fellowes et al. (2002); RC=Regional Concern; letter in parentheses indicate that the assessment is based

on restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting sites.4. IUCN (2009)5. Protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)


7b.4.3.4 A total of 46 avifaunal species were recorded within the study area during the currentstudy. The most common species recorded include Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus



jocosus), Chinese Bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis), Masked Laughingthrush (Garrulaxperspicillatus), and Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonica). A full list of avifaunalspecies recorded is given in Appendix 7b.6.

7b.4.3.5 Among the recorded species within the study area, a total of 7 species are considered tobe of conservation interest, as listed in the following table:

Table 7b.7 Avifauna Species of Conservation Interest Recorded within the StudyArea at Shek Kwu Chau

Common Name (1) Scientific NameDistribution

in HongKong (2)

Level ofConcern (3)

IUCN RedList (4)

Pacific Reef Egret Egretta sacra Uncommon (LC) -Black Kite Milvus migrans Common (RC) -White-bellied SeaEagle (5)


Uncommon (RC) -

Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica Scarce - -Pacific Swift Apus pacificus Common LC -White-throatedKingfisher

Halcyonsmyrnensis

Common (LC) -

Japanese ParadiseFlycatcher

Terpsiphoneatrocaudata

Scarce LC NearThreatened

Note:1. All wild birds are Protected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)2. AFCD (2006a)3. Fellowes et al. (2002); RC=Regional Concern; LC=Local Concern; letter in parentheses indicate that the

assessment is based on restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting sites.4. IUCN (2009)5. Protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)

7b.4.3.6 Among the 7 recorded avifauna species of conservation interest, Pacific Reef Egret andWhite-bellied Sea Eagle were recorded in proximity to the works area. The rest wererecorded further inland above the elevation of the works area. Pacific Reef Egret (Egrettasacra) was recorded at the rocky shore in proximity to the works area, while White-belliedSea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) was found within shrubland habitat close to rockyshore. Conservation status of each species is described in Table 7b.7, and more detailsare provided as follows:

Pacific Reef Egret

7b.4.3.7 Pacific Reef Egret is a locally uncommon resident and is confined to coastal rocky areas(HKBWS, 2009; Viney et al., 2005). Three individuals were recorded resting and flyingalong the rocky shore near the proposed reclamation area. There was no sighting of sticknest among rocks during site observation.

White-bellied Sea Eagle

7b.4.3.8 White-bellied Sea Eagle (WBSE) is an uncommon resident that occurs in coastal areas,offshore islands and sometimes at large reservoirs in Hong Kong (HKBWS, 2009; Vineyet al., 2005; Carey et al., 2001). Nests are often built close to water, on trees and cliffs,or on the ground with the absence of predators (AFCD, 2010a). One adult WBSE wasrecorded among shrubland habitat near to the rocky shore within the study area duringsite observation. It was observed to be in good health condition. Although records ofnesting White-bellied Sea Eagle were previously made under another study at Shek Kwu



Chau (AFCD, 2010a), nevertheless no foraging or breeding behaviour was noted duringsite observation.

Outside the Study Area

7b.4.3.9 One sighting of White-bellied Sea Eagle was recorded among hillside shrubland habitatnear the rocky shore outside the boundary of the study area (over 500 m away). Twoother individuals were observed at flight over the island; and another one was observedcarrying a fish flying towards Shek Kwu Chau over open waters.

7b.4.3.10 In addition, two individuals of Black-naped Tern (Sterna sumatrana) were recorded flyingand resting along the rocky shore outside the study area (about 600 m away). Thisspecies is a common summer visitor that breeds on rocky islets (HKBWS, 2009; Viney etal. 2005). No breeding behaviour was recorded during site observation.

Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.3.11 A total of 46 avifauna species were recorded in the vicinity of the study area of thisProject, along the Tung Chung Road (HyD, 2002); where most of the recorded speciesare commonly recorded in similar habitats in Hong Kong. Although no avifauna speciesof conservation interest were recorded within the study area of this Project, nevertheless,Grey Nightjar (scarce and of local concern) were recorded outside the study area alongthe Tung Chung Road (ibid.).


7b.4.3.12 A total of 20 avifaunal species were recorded within the study area during the currentstudy. The most common species recorded include Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotusjocosus), Chinese Bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis), and Japanese White-eye (Zosteropsjaponica). A full list of avifaunal species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.15.

7b.4.3.13 Among the recorded species within the study area, a total of 4 species is considered to beof conservation interest, as listed in the following table:

Table 7b.8 Avifauna Species of Conservation Interest Recorded within the StudyArea at Cheung Sha

Common Name1 Scientific NameDistribution

in HongKong2

Level ofConcern3

IUCN RedList4

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Common PRC (RC) -Pacific Reef Egret Egretta sacra Uncommon (LC) -Black Kite Milvus migrans Common (RC) -White-throatedKingfisher

Halcyonsmyrnensis

Common (LC) -

Note:1. All wild birds are Protected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)2. AFCD (2006a)3. Fellowes et al. (2002); RC=Regional Concern; LC=Local Concern; PRC=Potential Regional Concern; letter

in parentheses indicate that the assessment is based on restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting sites.4. IUCN (2009)

7b.4.3.14 Among the 4 recorded avifaunal species of conservation interest, Pacific Reef Egret andBlack Kite were recorded in proximity to the works area. The rest were recorded furtherinland above the elevation of the works area. The conservation status of each species isdescribed in Table 7b.8, and more details are provided as follows:



Pacific Reef Egret

7b.4.3.15 Pacific Reef Egret is a locally uncommon resident and is confined to coastal rocky areas(HKBWS, 2009; Viney et al., 2005). Two individuals were recorded resting on an isolatedrock off the shore, and foraging at the coastal waters approximately 500 m from the worksarea. There was no sighting of stick nest among rocks during site observation.

Black Kite

7b.4.3.16 Black Kites are abundant winter visitors and occur in the urban areas (Carey et al., 2001).A Black Kite was recorded resting on an isolated rock off the shore, and foraging at thecoastal waters approximately 500 m from the works area. Further inland withindeveloped habitat, a potential nest of Black Kite was observed at a metal tower(Appendix 7b.13). Nevertheless, no breeding behaviour, juvenile or egg was observed.Black Kites are considered of conservation interest in Hong Kong due to the restrictednesting and roosting ranges (Fellowes et al., 2002). The current breeding population isthought to be around 30 pairs (Carey et al., 2001).

7b.4.4 Terrestrial Mammals

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.4.1 No existing literature on terrestrial mammal at Shek Kwu Chau was identified.


7b.4.4.2 Only 1 species of terrestrial mammal, Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus), wasrecorded at flight over the pond and shrubland habitats during the current study(Appendix 7b.6). Japanese Pipistrelle is abundant and widespread in Hong Kong (Shek,2006). It is considered to be of local concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) and locallyprotected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). Japanese Pipistrelleroosts frequently in towns and villages, and are also abundant in wetland areas (Shek,2006).

Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.4.3 No existing literature on terrestrial mammal within the study area at Cheung Sha wasreported. Nevertheless, along the Tung Chung Road outside the study area, mammalspecies including Chinese Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi), Civet, and Small-toothed FerretBadger (Melogale moschata) were previously recorded; which are all locally protectedunder Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170).


7b.4.4.4 Only 1 species of terrestrial mammal, Domestic Ox (Bos taurus), was recorded at alongthe roadside and near W2 within the study area (Appendix 7b.15). Domestic Ox isabundant and widespread in Hong Kong (Shek, 2006).



7b.4.5 Herpetofauna

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.5.1 According to relevant literatures, herpetofauna previously recorded at Shek Kwu Chauinclude snake species Painted Bronze Back (Dendrelaphis pictus), Common Rat Snake(Ptyas mucosus), Jade Vine Snake (Ahaetulla prasina), Burmese Python (Pythonmolurus), Copperhead Racer (Elaphe radiata), and Many-banded Krait (Oligodonformosanus); gecko species Tree Gecko (Hemiphyllodactylus sp.); and lizard speciesBogadek’s Burrowing Lizard (Dibamus bogadeki); frog species Three-striped Grass Frog(Rana macrodactyla); and tortoise species Reeve's Terrapin (Chinemys reevesii) (AFCD,2006a; Chan et al., 2006a; Chan et al., 2006b; Chan et al., 2005; Karsen et al., 1998;HKU, 1997; HKU, 1993).

7b.4.5.2 Based on the amassed historical data from 1984 to 1999, Lazell (2002) documented atotal of 24 herpetofauna species at Shek Kwu Chau, where 10 of them are considered tobe of conservation interest and are rare in Hong Kong. Bogadek’s Burrowing Lizard(Dibamus bogadeki) is one of the recorded reptiles. Among the 5 collected specimens ofthis species in Hong Kong, 3 were collected from Shek Kwu Chau (Lazell, 2002).

7b.4.5.3 Details of the previously recorded reptile species of conservation interest are listed in thefollowing table (no amphibian species of conservation interest were noted):

Table 7b.9 Herpetofauna Species of Conservation Interest Previously Recorded atShek Kwu Chau

Common Name Scientific Name Distribution inHong Kong (1)

Level ofConcern

(2)

IUCN RedList (5)

ReptilePainted Bronze Back Dendrelaphis pictus Rare, only 1

record from HongKong Island, and1 recorded fromShek Kwu Chau

LC -

Common RatSnake4

Ptyas mucosus Widely distributed PRC -

Jade Vine Snake Ahaetulla prasina Uncertain LC -Burmese Python (3),

(4)Python molurusbivittatus

Widely distributed PRC Lower Risk/Near

ThreatenedCopperhead Racer Elaphe radiata Widely distributed PRC -Many-banded Krait Bungarus

multicinctusWidely distributed PRC -

Chinese Cobra (3) Naja atra Widely distributed PRC -Tree Gecko Hemiphyllodactylus

sp.Found in Po Toi,Aberdeen, Shek

Kwu Chau

RC -

Bogadek'sBurrowing Lizard

Dibamus bogadeki Rare, onlyrecorded from 3islands: Hei LingChau, Shek Kwu

Chau andSunshine Island

GC -



Common Name Scientific Name Distribution inHong Kong (1)

Level ofConcern

(2)

IUCN RedList (5)

Reeve's Terrapin (3) Chinemys reevesii Widespread inreservoirs

- Endangered

Note:1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); GC=Global concern; RC=Regional Concern; LC=Local Concern; PRC=Potential

Regional Concern.3. Protected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)4. Protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)5. IUCN (2009)


Active search

7b.4.5.4 A total of 6 reptile species and 5 amphibian species were recorded within the study areaduring the active search survey. Relatively high diversity and abundance were recordedat the developed and plantation habitats for reptile species; and pond habitat foramphibian species. Asian Common Toad (Bufo melanostictus) was the most abundantspecies, whereas Three-striped Grass Frog (Rana macrodactyla) was also commonlyfound. Within puddles and pools, tadpoles of Asian Common Toad (Bufo melanostictus),Asiatic Painted Frog (Kaloula pulchra pulchra), and Ornate Pigmy Frog (Microhyla ornata)were occasionally observed. A full list of herpetofauna species recorded is given inAppendix 7b.6.

7b.4.5.5 Among the recorded species during active search, Tree Gecko (Hemiphyllodactylus sp.)is considered to be of regional concern (Fellowes et al., 2002) (Table 7b.10). Thisspecies was recorded on the side of a tree trunk among the plantation habitat. TreeGecko is rare, mostly nocturnal, and is usually found on large tree trunks and abandonedbuildings in or near forest (Karsen et al., 1998).

Table 7b.10 Herpetofauna Species of Conservation Interest Recorded within theStudy Area at Shek Kwu Chau

Common Name Scientific Name Distribution inHong Kong1

Level ofConcern2

IUCNRed List3

Tree Gecko Hemiphyllodactylus sp. Found in Po Toi,Aberdeen, Shek

Kwu Chau

RC -

Note:1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); RC=Regional Concern.3. IUCN (2009)

Cover Board Survey

7b.4.5.6 One amphibian species, Asian Common Toad (Bufo melanostictus), was recorded withinthe study area during cover board survey. A total of 3 individuals were recordedunderneath the cover boards: 1 was recorded near pond, and 2 were recorded atdeveloped area. No record of the previously recorded herpetofauna species ofconservation interest, including Bogadek’s Burrowing Lizard, was made during the coverboard survey. Detailed results are presented in Appendix 7b.7.



Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.5.7 Amphibian species of conservation interest previously recorded within the study area ofthis Project include frog species Xenophrys brachykolos (upper reach of W1 andshrubland) and Philautus romeri (shrubland); and snake species Naja atra near W1 (HyD,2002).

7b.4.5.8 Details of the previously recorded herpetofauna species are listed in the following table:

Table 7b.11 Herpetofauna Species of Conservation Interest Previously Recorded atCheung Sha

Common Name ScientificName

Distribution in HongKong 1

Level ofConcern 2

IUCN RedList 4

ReptileChinese Cobra 3 Naja atra Widely distributed PRC -AmphibianShort-legged Toad Xenophrys

brachykolosCommon PGC Endangered

Romer's Tree Frog 3 Philautusromeri

Distributed inwoodlands on LantauIsland, Po Toi Island,Lamma Island, HongKong Island and New

Territories

PGC Endangered

Note:1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); PRC=Potential Regional Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern3. Protected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)4. IUCN (2009)


7b.4.5.9 A total of 5 reptile species and 5 amphibian species were recorded within the study areaduring the active search survey. Comparatively higher diversity and abundance wererecorded at the developed and plantation habitats for reptile species; and shrublandhabitat for amphibian species. Asian Common Toad (Bufo melanostictus) was the mostcommonly recorded species, whereas the rest were only occasionally observed. A full listof herpetofauna species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.15.

7b.4.5.10 Among the recorded species during active search, a total of 1 reptile and 2 amphibianspecies are considered to be of conservation interest. Chinese Cobra (Naja atra) wasrecorded moving along a roadside concrete channel within developed habitat; Short-legged Toad (Xenophrys brachykolos) was heard near the upper reach of watercourse(W1), while Lesser Spiny Frog (Paa exilispinosa) was observed within shrubland habitatnear the lower reach of W1 (Figure 7b.2). Details of these species are listed as follows:



Table 7b.12 Herpetofauna Species of Conservation Interest Recorded within theStudy Area at Cheung Sha

Common Name ScientificName

Distribution inHong Kong 1

Level ofConcern

2

IUCN RedList 4

ReptileChinese Cobra 3 Naja atra Widely distributed PRC -AmphibianShort-legged Toad Xenophrys

brachykolosCommon PGC Endangered

Lesser Spiny Frog Paa exilispinosaWidely distributed

in mountainstreams

PGC Vulnerable

Note:1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); PRC=Potential Regional Concern; PGC=Potential Global Concern3. Protected under Wild Animal Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)4. IUCN (2009)

7b.4.6 Dragonflies and Butterflies

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.6.1 An uncommon damselfly species, Eastern Lilysquatter (Cercion melanotum), wasobserved in tandem at Shek Kwu Chau in 1997, and the female was seen to oviposit onlily leaves (HKU, 1998; Wilson et al., 2003a). This species is considered to be of localconservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002).

7b.4.6.2 Another uncommon damselfly species, Dusky Lilysquatter (Cercion calamorum dyeri),was previously recorded at Shek Kwu Chau (AFCD, 2009c). Adults are known to occuron floating vegetation such as water lily leaves and grasses in pond habitat (Wilson et al.,2003a). This species is considered to be of local conservation concern by Fellowes et al.(2002).

7b.4.6.3 Details of the previously recorded dragonfly species of conservation interest are listed inthe following table:

Table 7b.13 Dragonfly Species of Conservation Interest Previously Recorded atShek Kwu Chau


Level ofConcern2

IUCN RedList3

DamselflyEastern Lilysquatter Cercion melanotum Uncommon LC -Dusky Lilysquatter Cercion calamorum

dyeriUncommon LC -

Note:1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); LC=Local Concern3. IUCN (2009)

7b.4.6.4 Between 1990 and 2000, a total of 71 butterfly species were recorded at Shek Kwu Chau,whereas the most common species include Forest Hopper (Astictopterus jama), AngledCastor (Ariadne ariadne), Ceylon Blue Glassy Tiger (Ideopsis similis), Common Grass



Yellow (Eurema hecabe), Blue-spotted Crow (Euploea midamus), Large Faun (Fauniseumeus), Common Mormon (Papilio polytes), and Pale Grass Blue (Zizeeria maha)(Lutman, 2000). Uncommon species recorded include Orange Owlet (Bibasisoedipodea), Cornelian (Deudorix epijarbas), and Three-spot Grass Yellow (Euremablanda) (ibid.).


Butterfly

7b.4.6.5 A total of 40 butterfly species were recorded within the study area during the currentstudy. Relatively high diversity and abundance were recorded at the shrubland habitat.Common Mormon (Papilio polytes), Indian Cabbage White (Pieris canidia), and CommonGrass Yellow (Eurema hecabe) were the most abundant species; whereas Great Mormon(Papilio memnon), Plum Judy (Abisara echerius), and Large Fauna (Faunis eumeus)were also commonly found. A full list of butterfly species recorded is given in Appendix7b.6.

7b.4.6.6 Among the recorded species, Small Grass Yellow (Eurema brigitta) is considered to be ofconservation interest. This species was recorded at the shrubland habitat during siteobservation. It is known to be often found in shrubland and abandoned agricultural areanear their host plant Cassia mimosoides (Lo, 2005; Young et al., 2002). Details of thisspecies are listed in Table 7b.14.

Dragonfly and Damselfly

7b.4.6.7 A total of 6 damselfly species and 13 dragonfly species were recorded within the studyarea during the current study. Relatively high diversity and abundance were recorded atthe pond habitat. Yellow Fetherlegs (Copera marginipes) was the most abundant species;whereas Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens) was also commonly found. A full list ofdragonfly and damselfly species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.6.

7b.4.6.8 Among the recorded species, Eastern Lilysquatter (Cercion melanotum) is considered tobe of conservation interest. This species was recorded at the pond habitat resting on alily leaf during site observation. Details of this species are listed in Table 7b.14.

7b.4.6.9 No record of the uncommon damselfly species, Dusky Lilysquatter (Cercion calamorumdyeri), was made during the surveys.

Table 7b.14 Dragonflies and Butterflies Species of Conservation Interest Recordedwithin the Study Area at Shek Kwu Chau


Level ofConcern2

IUCN RedList3

ButterflySmall Grass Yellow Eurema brigitta Uncommon LC -DamselflyEastern Lilysquatter Cercion melanotum Uncommon LC -Note:

1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); LC=Local Concern;3. IUCN (2009)



Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.6.10 Outside of the study area, 2 butterfly species of conservation interest were recorded atthe upper reach of W1, including Large Branded Swift (Pelopidas subochraceus)(distribution in Hong Kong is uncertain), and Common Rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae)(uncommon distribution in Hong Kong) (HyD, 2002). Further up, a damselfly species ofconservation interest, Short-winged Shadowdamsel (Protosticta beaumonti), was alsorecorded at W1 outside the study area (ibid.). This species is uncommon in Hong Kongand is of global concern.


Butterfly

7b.4.6.11 A total of 25 butterfly species were recorded within the study area during the currentstudy. Relatively high diversity and abundance were recorded at the shrubland anddeveloped habitats. Common Mormon (Papilio polytes), Great Mormon (Papiliomemnon), and Common Grass Yellow (Eurema hecabe) were the most abundant species;whereas Red Helen (Papilio helenus), and Pale Grass Blue (Zizeeria maha) were alsocommonly found. No butterfly species of conservation interest was recorded within thestudy area. A full list of butterfly species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.15.

Dragonfly and Damselfly

7b.4.6.12 A total of 3 damselfly species and 2 dragonfly species were recorded within the studyarea during the current study. Relatively high diversity and abundance were recorded atthe watercourse and shrubland habitats. Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens) was themost commonly recorded species; whereas the rest was only occasionally found. Nodragonfly and damselfly species of conservation interest was recorded within the studyarea. A full list of dragonfly and damselfly species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.15.

7b.4.7 Freshwater Communities

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.7.1 No existing literature on freshwater communities at Shek Kwu Chau was identified.


7b.4.7.2 A total of 21 species were recorded within the study area during the current study.Shrimp species, Caridina sp., was the most abundant species; whereas Ptilomera tigrina,Helicopsychidae, and Chironomidae were also commonly found. A full list of freshwaterspecies recorded is given in Appendix 7b.6. No species of conservation interest wasrecorded at the 2 streams identified within the study area.

Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.7.3 An uncommon fish species Stiphodon atropurpureus, and a rare fish species Awaousmelanocephalus, were previously recorded from W1; other fish species recorded at W1include Ctenogobius duospilus, Ctenogobius giurinus, Liniparhomaloptera disparis,Noemacheilus fasciolatus, and Oreonectes platycephalus (HyD, 2002). No fish wasreported at W2 (ibid.).



7b.4.7.4 Details of the previously recorded freshwater species of conservation interest are listed inthe following table:

Table 7b.15 Freshwater Species of Conservation Interest Previously Recorded atCheung Sha


Level ofConcern2

IUCN RedList3

Fish- Stiphodon

atropurpureumUncommon GC -

Largesnout Goby Awaousmelanocephalus

Rare RC -

Note:1. AFCD (2006a)2. Fellowes et al. (2002); GC=Global concern; RC=Regional Concern.3. IUCN (2009)


7b.4.7.5 A total of 27 species were recorded within the study area during the current study.Hemiptera, Ptilomera tigrina (Gerridae), and shrimp, Caridina sp., were the mostabundant species recorded; whereas caddisfly Chimarra (Philopotamidae) andHerbertorossia (Hydropsychidae), and hemiptera Metrocoris sp. (Gerridae) were alsocommonly recorded. No species of conservation interest was recorded at the 2watercourses identified within the study area. A full list of freshwater species recorded isgiven in Appendix 7b.15.

7b.4.8 Intertidal Fauna

Shek Kwu Chau

Literature Review

7b.4.8.1 No recent record of intertidal survey at Shek Kwu Chau was noted during literaturereview. During the EIA-065/2001 - 132 KV Supply Circuit from Pui O via Chi Ma WanPeninsula via Sea Crossing towards Cheung Chau, the majority of intertidal areas atCheung Chau, which is approximately 2.5 km from Shek Kwu Chau, are artificialseawalls; where common species including algae, sponges, bryozoans, molluscs andpolychaetes have been previously recorded (CLP, 2001).


7b.4.8.2 At Shek Kwu Chau, each of the 6 deployed transects were approximately 4 m in length,stretching from high tide mark to low tide mark. The shoreline within the study area wascomposed of natural bedrock and big boulders.

7b.4.8.3 A total of 34 floral and faunal species were recorded during the walk-through and transectsurveys. All of the recorded species were common and widespread in Hong Kong.Tetraclita squamosa and Saccostrea cucullata were the dominant species at the lowertidal level; while Echinolittorina radiata and Echinolittorina trochoides were dominant atthe higher tidal level. No species of conservation importance was recorded. Theintertidal community at the study area is considered to have low diversity and lowabundance. The species composition of the rocky shore at Shek Kwu Chau isconsidered to be similar to the rest of the rocky shores in Hong Kong. A full list ofintertidal species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.6.



7b.4.8.4 The following table summarises the intertidal line-transect survey results:

Table 7b.16 Summary of Intertidal Line-transect Survey Results at Shek Kwu Chau

R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6

Dry Season (January 2009)Total no. of species (of the wholetransect) 23 26 26 27 24 27

Average no. of mobile individualsper 0.25 m2 26.5 27.8 33.3 31.5 31.3 40.8

Average percentage cover ofsessile organisms 43% 50.3% 47.5% 43% 40.3% 41.3%

Dry Season (March 2009)Total no. of species (of the wholetransect) 22 24 25 27 27 28

Average no. of mobile individualsper 0.25 m2 32.8 33.3 37.3 31 39.3 37.8

Average percentage cover ofsessile organisms 40.5% 49.8% 44.5% 48.8% 45.5% 49%

Wet Season (June 2009)Total no. of species (of the wholetransect) 22 27 25 24 24 25

Average no. of mobile individualsper 0.25 m2 56.8 64.3 69.5 52 63.8 73.3

Average percentage cover ofsessile organisms 33.5% 42.5% 38% 34% 35% 38.3%

Cheung Sha

Literature Review

7b.4.8.5 Along the shore of Lantau South Road, dominant intertidal species recorded includegastropod Monodonta australis, bivalve Barbatia virescens, and stalked barnacleCapitulum mitella (HyD, 2002). The mid-shore was dominated by Capitulum mitella, andthe low and mid-shore was dominated by Monodonta australis and Barbatia virescens(ibid.). Some of the other species recorded include crab species Hemigrapsussanguineus, sea slater Ligia exotica, as well as Littorinids Nodilittorina millegrana and N.pyramidal (ibid.). No rare or species of conservation interest were recorded.

7b.4.8.6 At the shore of Tai Long Wan at Chi Man Wan Peninsula, a total of 15 species of intertidalfauna and 3 species of macroalgae were recorded on the natural rocky shore (CLP,2001). Dominant species recorded include limpets Notoacmaea schrenkii, Patelloidasaccharina, and Cellana toreuma; and periwinkles Nodilittorina radiata, N. vidua, and N.trochoides (ibid.).


7b.4.8.7 At Cheung Sha, among the 4 deployed transects (R1 to R4), one was approximately 16 min length, and the rest were approximately 4 m in length, stretching from high tide mark tolow tide mark. The shoreline within the study area was composed of natural bedrock andbig boulders.

7b.4.8.8 A total of 53 floral and faunal species were recorded during the walk-through and transectsurveys. All of the recorded species were common and widespread in Hong Kong.



Echinolittorina radiate, Thais luteostoma, Patelloida saccharina and Saccostrea cucullatawere the dominant species during the surveys. No species of conservation importancewas recorded. The intertidal community at the study area is considered to have low tomoderate diversity and low abundance. The species composition of the rocky shore atCheung Sha is considered to be similar to the rest of the rocky shores in Hong Kong. Afull list of intertidal species recorded is given in Appendix 7b.15.

7b.4.8.9 The following table summarises the intertidal survey results:

Table 7b.17 Summary of Intertidal Survey Results at Cheung Sha

R1 R2 R3 R4

Wet Season (September 2009)Total no. of species (of the wholetransect) 25 14 10 14Average no. of mobile individualsper 0.25 m2 21.4 27.8 1.7 9.3Average percentage cover of sessileorganisms 34% 26% 48.3% 10.3%

Dry Season (January 2010)Total no. of species (of the wholetransect) 31 18 15 21Average no. of mobile individualsper 0.25 m2 30.7 22.7 37.7 17Average percentage cover of sessileorganisms 54% 59.3% 89% 90.8

7b.4.9 Subtidal Fauna

Shek Kwu Chau

Coral

Literature Review

7b.4.9.1 Previous coral surveys on coastal areas around the whole of Shek Kwu Chau suggestedthat coral habitats around the island were of low ecological value (AFCD, 2004). Onlyfew colonies of Guaiagorgia sp., Porites sp., and a patch of dead corals were recorded(ibid.). Spot-check reconnaissance dive revealed low diversity (2 species) and coverage(1-5%) of hard corals on the coastal subtidal-hard substratum around the island (AFCD,2002a).


7b.4.9.2 The natural coastline of Shek Kwu Chau is mainly composed of natural bedrocks and bigboulders near the coast, and muddy substrate towards to sea. A total of 15 coral species(8 hard coral species and 7 octocoral species) were recorded during the spot checkreconnaissance dive (Figure 7b.1). Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) surveys wereconducted according to the results from the spot check dive, and a total of 16 REAtransects (REA T1 to T16) of 100 m each were deployed (Figure 7b.9). Details of thespot check and REA surveys are included in Appendix 7b.11. The following Table 7b.18presents coral species recording during the spot check and REA dive survey.



Table 7b.18 Coral Species Found within the Study Area at Shek Kwu Chau

Species Name Rarity in Hong KongHard Corals (1)

Psammocora superficialis AbundantOulastrea crispata CommonGoniopora stutchburyi CommonTurbinaria peltata CommonCoscinaraea n sp. UncommonTubastrea sp. CommonTubastrea diaphana CommonDendrophyllia sp. CommonOctocoralsDendronephthya sp. CommonMenella sp. CommonEuplexaura sp. CommonEchinomuricea sp. CommonEchinogorgia sp. A CommonEchinogorgia sp. B CommonParaplexaura sp. CommonNote:1. All hard coral species are protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants

Ordinance (Cap. 586)

7b.4.9.3 Sparse and patchy cover (<1%) of coral communities were recorded in the study area.The hard corals were in small size, ranging from 2 to 30 cm in diameter for hard corals,and from 4 to 30 cm in height for octocorals. The corals were considered to be in fairhealth condition.

7b.4.9.4 Oulastrea crispata was the dominant species along the shallow coastal area (REA T1-9).One uncommon hard coral species, Coscinaraea n sp., was recorded at REA T9. Allhard coral species are protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animalsand Plants Ordinance (Cap 586). Established coral communities of any size areregarded as important habitat in Hong Kong as defined in Annex 8 of EIAO-TM.

7b.4.9.5 The muddy bottom offshore to the coastal area (REA T10-13) was dominated byoctocorals, which were grown on the surface of scattered boulders. Echinomuricea sp.and Echinogorgia sp. were the dominant species on the scattered boulders at muddysubstrate. The recorded octocorals are common species in Hong Kong.

7b.4.9.6 During the survey, common rock oyster, common green mussel, common tunicate, seaurchins, tubeworm, sponges, sea cucumber, and algae were recorded on the rocksurface; whereas common tube anemone was found at the muddy bottom during thesurvey. All species recorded were common in Hong Kong and were found in lowabundance and diversity.

Benthos

Literature Review

7b.4.9.7 During the territory-wide study on marine benthic in Hong Kong, the 2 sampling stations inthe vicinity of Shek Kwu Chau (Station Number 27 and 31) recorded low to moderatespecies richness (25-50 taxa per 0.5 m2 in summer; 40-60 taxa per 0.5 m2 in winter), and



abundance (116-408 individuals per m2 in summer; 308-496 individuals per m2 in winter)for benthos communities (AFCD, 2002b).


7b.4.9.8 Benthos surveys were conducted at 5 sampling points (P1 to P5) within the boundary ofthe Project Site (Figure 7b.4). The sediments at sampling points P1 and P2 representtypical offshore substratum receiving coarse runoff materials from nearby coast. Themuddy sediments at P3-P5 are similar to those at Southern WCZ. Photographic recordsof sediment collected at the sampling points during dry and wet and seasons arepresented in Appendix 7b.8.

7b.4.9.9 A total of 1,949 specimens were collected in dry and wet seasons. The most diversephylum was polychaete (60 species), followed by 13 species of crustacean, 8 species ofmollusk, 5 species of cnidarian, 5 species of echinoderm, 3 species of fish, 2 species ofechiurans, and 2 species of sipunculan. No species of conservation importance wasrecorded.

7b.4.9.10 During dry season, a total of 1,210 individuals were recorded, where 87%, 5%, and 8% oftotal abundance were polychaete, crustacean and other phyla respectively. During wetseason, a total of 739 individuals were recorded, where 76%, 10%, 8%, and 6% of totalabundance were polychaete, crustacean, echiuran and other phyla respectively.Polychaete was the most abundant group at all sampling points during both wet and dryseasons.

7b.4.9.11 The Diversity Index (H’) and Evenness Index (J) had a range of 2.00-2.93 and 0.57-0.83respectively among the 5 sampling points. Both H’ and J remained similar acrossseasons. Table 7b.19 presents the total abundance, total biomass, H’ and J at everysampling point during both wet and dry seasons.

7b.4.9.12 The complete list of collected specimens is provided in Appendix 7b.8.

Table 7b.19 Summary of Benthos Survey Results in Dry and Wet Seasons at ShekKwu Chau

Sampling Points

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5

Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet

Total number of species34 29 37 36 30 23 29 23 24 34(spp. 0.3 m-2)

Total abundance

1470 527 1497 957 340 320 383 350 343 310(ind. m-2)

Total biomass

25.99 16.21 19.99 13.47 48.44 32.17 22.38 45.98 35.51 47.24(g m-2)Shannon-Weaver DiversityIndex – H' 2 2.62 2.29 2.44 2.81 2.54 2.45 2.48 2.52 2.93Pielou’s SpeciesEvenness – J 0.57 0.78 0.64 0.68 0.83 0.81 0.73 0.79 0.79 0.83

7b.4.9.13 The following Table 7b.20 compares the Diversity Index (H’) and Evenness Index (J) ofbenthic communities of the current study with other waters in Hong Kong.



Table 7b.20 Comparison of Diversity Index (H’) and Evenness Index (J) of BenthicCommunities at Shek Kwu Chau with Other Waters in Hong Kong

WaterZone

Shek KwuChau

SamplingPoint #31

ToloHarbour

Easternand

SouthernWaters

VictoriaHarbour

DeepBay

Dry WetH' 2.42 2.60 2.85 1.36 2.82 1.64 2.32

J 0.71 0.78 0.89 0.83 0.81 0.44 0.73

ReferencesPresentStudy

AFCD,2002b Shin et al., 2004

7b.4.9.14 The biodiversity of benthic community at Shek Kwu Chau in the present survey is slightlylower than that at ‘Eastern and Southern Waters’. It is higher than that of ‘Tolo Harbour’and ‘Victoria Harbour’, where long term sewage pollution has been recorded (EPD, 2006).These results indicate that the environmental condition at Shek Kwu Chau is comparableto some unpolluted water zones (e.g. eastern waters of Hong Kong), considering that it isunder pollution stress from Pearl River runoff.

7b.4.9.15 It is supported by the relatively high species evenness at Shek Kwu Chau. Relative to thenearest sampling point #31 in previous territory-wide survey (AFCD, 2002b), thebiodiversity and evenness are lower around the southern coast of Shek Kwu Chau. Thesampling point #31 located farther from coast and received stronger flushing from opensea, that the adverse effects of pollution were minimized.

7b.4.9.16 In general, sign of organic enrichment was detected at southern coast of Shek Kwu Chaubased on the dominance of opportunistic, deposit-feeding polychaetes. Relatively, P3, P4,and P5 were less polluted than P1 and P2, due to their higher species evenness andlower abundance of opportunistic species.

Cheung Sha

Coral

Literature Review

7b.4.9.17 No recent record of coral survey at Cheung Sha coastline was noted during literaturereview. Coral surveys previously conducted at Tai Long Wan at Chi Ma Wan (4.5 kmaway) recorded 5 species of hard corals, including Psammocora superficialis, Cyphastreaserailia, Porites lobata, Goniopora stutchburyi, and Oulastrea crispata; and 2 species ofsoft corals, including Dendronephthya sp. and Euplexaura spp. (CLP, 2001). Thediversity recorded was low, size was small, and the distribution is common in Hong Kong.


7b.4.9.18 The natural coastline of Cheung Sha is mainly composed of natural bedrocks, bigboulders, and muddy/sandy substrates. No hard corals or octocorals were recordedduring the spot check reconnaissance dive (Figure 7b.5).

7b.4.9.19 During the survey, common rock oyster Saccostrea cucullata and common green musselPerna viridis were found on the surfaces of the big boulders. Both species are commonlyfound in Hong Kong waters. Turf algae Corallina spp., bryozoan, sea anemoneSpheractis cheungae, sea urchins Anthocidaris crassispina and Salmacis sphaeroideswere also found at these sites. All species recorded were common in Hong Kong andwere found in low abundance and diversity.



Along the Proposed Submarine Cable

Benthos

Literature Review

7b.4.9.20 A previous benthos survey conducted near to Shek Kwu Chau recorded polychaeteworms, corophiid amphipods and pinnotherid crabs as the dominant groups; it was alsosuggested that the benthos assemblages between Chi Man Wan and Cheung Chauwould be similar in composition (CLP, 2001).


7b.4.9.21 Benthos surveys were conducted at 4 sampling points (P1 to P4) within and in the vicinityof the proposed alignment.

7b.4.9.22 The sediments at sampling point P1 was mainly fine sand. P1 was the closest to CheungSha coast in comparison with other sampling sites. While this point constantly receiveswave action, the fine mud was dragged away hence only fine sand was remained. Othersampling sites (P2, P3 and P4) located far from coasts and had muddy substrate. Similarsubstratum was reported at southern coast of Shek Kwu Chau. Photographic records ofsediment collected at the sampling points during dry and wet and seasons are presentedin Appendix 7b.16.

7b.4.9.23 A total of 919 and 955 specimens were collected in wet and dry seasons respectively.The most diverse faunal group was polychaete (42 species), followed by 15 species ofcrustaceans, 12 species of mollusk, 4 species of echinoderm, 2 species of cnidarian, 1species of echiuran and 1 species of sipunculan. No species of conservation importancewas recorded.

7b.4.9.24 During wet season, 69%, 15%, 8% and 8% of total abundance were polychaete,echiuran, mollusk and other phyla respectively. During dry season, 72%, 9%, 7% and12% of total abundance were polychaete, echiuran, crustacean and other phylarespectively.

7b.4.9.25 The complete list of collected specimens is provided in Appendix 7b.16.

7b.4.9.26 The Diversity Index (H’) and Evenness Index (J) had a range of 2.17-3.07 and 0.63-0.84respectively among the 3 sampling points (P2 to P4) within and in the vicinity of theproposed alignment; while H’ and J of the sampling point P1, adjacent to Cheung Shacoast, were comparatively low, with the values of 1.03-1.99 and 0.35-0.59. Both H’ and Jremained similar across seasons. Table 7b.21 presents the total abundance, totalbiomass, H’ and J at every sampling point during both wet and dry seasons.



Table 7b.21 Summary of Benthos Survey Results in Dry and Wet Seasons along the ProposedSubmarine Cable

Sampling PointsP1 P2 P3 P4

Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry WetTotal number of species (spp.0.3 m-2) 29 18 35 31 39 35 37 31

Total abundance (ind. m-2) 830 953 763 830 650 420 940 860

Total biomass (g m-2) 2.296 0.9493 12.3237 15.032 19.0793 10.021 57.76 38.0247

Shannon-Weaver DiversityIndex – H' 1.99 1.03 2.3 2.54 2.36 3.07 2.3 2.17

Pielou’s Species Evenness – J 0.59 0.35 0.65 0.74 0.64 0.84 0.64 0.63

7b.4.9.27 The following Table 7b.22 compares the Diversity Index (H’) and Evenness Index (J) ofbenthic communities of the current study with other waters in Hong Kong.

Table 7b.22 Comparison of Diversity Index (H’) and Evenness Index (J) of BenthicCommunities along the Proposed Submarine Cable with Other Waters in HongKong

Water Zone

Shek KwuChau

submarinecable

alignment

ShekKwuChau

(southerncoast)

Benthossamplingpoint 26

Benthossamplingpoint 27

ToloHarbour

Easternand

Southernwaters

VictoriaHarbour

DeepBay

Dry Wet

H' 2.24 2.2 2.51 2.9 3.26 1.39 2.85 1.72 1.89

J 0.63 0.65 0.75 0.69 0.82 0.78 0.82 0.46 0.63

ReferencesPresentStudy

PresentStudy AFCD, 2002 Shin et al., 2004

7b.4.9.28 The biodiversity of benthic community along the proposed submarine cable lied betweenthe unpolluted group and polluted groups. The species evenness was moderate. Thebenthic community in the present survey area was generally in healthy condition.Flushing from open sea might dilute the effects of Pearl River runoff. At a small spatialscale, there was no clear spatial difference of biodiversity and species evenness relativeto nearby sampling sites at Shek Kwu Chau. Since the hydrological factors were similarin water of southern Lantau Island, the differences of benthic communities were believeda natural, patchy distribution.

Shek Kwu Chau

Horseshoe Crab

Literature Review

7b.4.9.29 A study conducted between 1995 and 1998 recorded adult horseshoe crab, an individualof Tachypleus tridentatus, at the northwestern waters offshore from Shek Kwu Chau,approximately 600 m away from the Project Site (Chiu & Morton, 1999). While no nursery



ground for juvenile horseshoe crabs was previously recorded at the coasts of Shek KwuChau, with the nearest nursery grounds at Shui Hau Wan in South Lantau (over 7.5 kmaway from the Project Site). Considering that no intertidal soft shore habitat, suitablebreeding and nursery ground for juvenile horseshoe crab, was recorded within the 500 mboundary from the Project Site, no specific survey on juvenile horseshoe crab wasconducted in the recent study.

7b.4.10 Marine Mammals

Literature Review

Chinese White Dolphin

7b.4.10.1 From April 2009 to March 2010, Chinese White Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) was widelydistributed throughout Lung Kwu Chau, along the west coast of Lantau, near the BrothersIslands, and between the Soko Islands; where the west coast of Lantau was beingidentified as the most important dolphin habitat from 2002 to 2010 (AFCD, 2010c).Between April 2009 to March 2010, a total of 271 groups of Chinese White Dolphin, of1,062 individuals, were sighted during the surveys. As only 1 sighting of Chinese WhiteDolphin was recorded at Southeast Lantau, where Shek Kwu Chau is located, the watersaround Shek Kwu Chau is not considered to be an important habitat for Chinese WhiteDolphin.

Finless Porpoise

7b.4.10.2 Between the 2009 to 2010 study period, a total of 72 groups of Finless Porpoise of 148individuals were sighted during the surveys across Hong Kong waters (AFCD, 2010c).Waters that were the most intensely used by Finless Porpoise (Neophocaenaphocaenoides) include waters at the south of Tai A Chau, the offshore waters ofSoutheast Lantau, around Shek Kwu Chau (except the northeast), near Pui O Peninsula,near Tung O Wan (east of Lamma), and around Po Toi Islands (in particular near WaglanIsland) (Figure 7b.10) (ibid.). The most important habitats for Finless Porpoise(Neophocaena phocaenoides) with the highest concentration of sightings were identifiedat just south of Soko Islands, between Shek Kwu Chau and Tai A Chau, around ShekKwu Chau (except northeast), and around Po Toi Islands (ibid.).

Group size

7b.4.10.3 During the AFCD long-term marine mammal monitoring survey period in 2009-10, groupsizes of Finless Porpoise in Hong Kong waters ranged from 1-2 individuals to over 10individuals, with an overall mean of 2.1 ± 1.66 (AFCD, 2010c). The overall mean in 2009-10 was identified to be much lower than the overall mean in 1996-2006 (3.1), and wasconsiderably lower than the previous two monitoring survey periods in 2007-08 (2.6) and2008-09 (3.1) (ibid.). Finless Porpoise is often found in small groups, where 70.9% of thegroups encountered in 2009-10 composed of 1-2 individuals (ibid.).

7b.4.10.4 According to the long term marine mammal monitoring results between 2001 and 2009,large porpoise groups were mostly found in three locations: the southwest corners ofCheung Chau, Pui O Peninsula and Shek Kwu Chau (AFCD, 2009a; survey results underthis study). Most porpoise groups sighted near the IWMF and submarine cables weresmall to medium sized.

Seasonal Variation

7b.4.10.5 Distinct seasonal variations in the occurrence of Finless Porpoise had been observed.Between 2004 and 2009, South Lantau waters (south of Tai A Chau, offshore waters ofSoutheast Lantau, west and southwest of Shek Kwu Chau, and southeast former ofCheung Chau) was an important habitat for porpoise during winter and spring months



(95% of all sightings made during December to May); during summer and autumn months,Beaufort Island, Po Toi Island and Waglan Island recorded relatively higher usage (AFCD,2010c) (Figure 7b.11). In other words, within and around the proposed reclamation andsubmarine cable laying sites, winter and spring months (December to May) had thehighest distribution of Finless Porpoise sightings, whereas summer and autumn months(June to November) had the lowest Finless Porpoise sightings.

SPSE and DPSE

7b.4.10.6 Based upon the data from the AFCD dolphin surveys, among the 134 grids in Southeastand Southwest Lantau survey areas, 76 grids recorded on-effort porpoise sightings fromDecember to May in 2004-2009 (AFCD, 2010c). The SPSE (number of on-effort porpoisesightings per 100 units of survey effort) and DPSE (number of porpoises per 100 units ofsurvey effort) among the 134 grids ranged from 0->20 and 0-80 respectively. A numberof grids recorded high porpoise densities, and most of them were located to the south ofTai A Chau, the offshore waters between Tai A Chau and Shek Kwu Chau, and at thesouthwest and west sides of Shek Kwu Chau (Figure 7b.12). These clusters of highporpoise density grids can be viewed as important porpoise habitats in winter and springmonths.

7b.4.10.7 Between 2002 and 2009, the averaged SPSE and DPSE at south Lantau waters were 4.3and 11.6 respectively (AFCD, 2009a). Among the 8 grids that overlapped with the IWMFreclamation and submarine cables, all except 2 grids recorded porpoise sightings. Theaveraged SPSE and DPSE values of these 8 grids were 7.3 and 22.6 respectively, whichwere both higher than the averages recorded in south Lantau waters (4.3 and 11.6) (ibid.).

7b.4.10.8 In particular, the 3 grids overlapped with the IWMF reclamation site and part of thesubmarine cable alignment (Grids Q30-31, R31) recorded high porpoise densities, withaveraged SPSE and DPSE values of 14.93 and 44.09 respectively, which were 3 to 4times higher than the averages recorded in south Lantau waters (4.3 and 11.65) (ibid.).The high porpoise densities at the IWMF reclamation site and along the route ofsubmarine cables suggested that these areas were important porpoise habitats withfrequent occurrence of porpoises in winter and spring months.

Survey Results for this Study

7b.4.10.9 From December 2008 to May 2009, a total of 7 systematic line-transect surveys had beencompleted in the Southeast Lantau survey area for the present study. From these line-transect surveys, 373.1 km of survey effort was conducted (Appendix 7b.9). A majorityof survey effort was conducted under acceptable weather condition, with 94.9% at seastate Beaufort 3 or below, and 65.7% at sea state Beaufort 2 or below.

7b.4.10.10 From these surveys, 29 groups of Finless Porpoise of 49 individuals were sighted(Appendix 7b.10). Among them, 25 groups were sighted during on-effort search. NoChinese White Dolphin was sighted in the Southeast Lantau survey area during the 6-month study period.

7b.4.10.11 A notable concentration of porpoise sightings were observed at the southwest of ShekKwu Chau, as well as the offshore waters at the southwest portion of the survey area(Figure 7b.13). In which, a few sightings were noted within the proposed reclamationand breakwater area, as well as in proximity to the proposed submarine cable alignment.Such sightings indicate that the proposed works areas are within the range of FinlessPorpoise.

7b.4.10.12 Combining the results for the present study and AFCD monitoring surveys in December2008 to May 2009, group sizes of Finless Porpoise at the Southeast Lantau watersranged from 1 to 7 individuals, with a mean of 2.1 ± 1.45, which is lower than the averagerecorded from the same area from 2002-2008 (3.2) (AFCD, 2009a).



7b.4.10.13 Although no Chinese White Dolphin was sighted in the Southeast Lantau waters duringthe six-month study period, however, they have been sighted in this survey area duringthe past decade of marine mammal monitoring programme. Since 1996, 24 groups ofChinese white dolphins were observed in Southeast Lantau, but only 7 of them weresighted there since 2002. Notably, 50% of the 24 dolphin sightings were made inassociation with pair-trawlers, which may have attracted the dolphins to follow fromSouthwest Lantau to Southeast Lantau waters (Hung, 2009).

7b.4.10.14 While very few of these dolphin sightings were made near the IWMF and the proposedsubmarine cables since 1996, their occurrence within the study area is considered to berare.

7b.5 Ecological Value

7b.5.1.1 With reference to EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, the ecological importance of recordedhabitats has been evaluated in Tables 7b.23 – 7b.31 for Shek Kwu Chau, Tables 7b.32– 7b.38 for Cheung Sha, and Tables 7b.39-7b.40 for the submarine cable alignment.

Shek Kwu Chau

Table 7b.23 Ecological Value of Shrubland Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria ShrublandNaturalness Habitat is secondary in nature and is dominated by

native species.Size Large (38.2 ha)Diversity Floral diversity: High (114 species)

Faunal diversity: Moderate (34 avifaunal species, 1amphibian species, 2 reptile species, 32 butterflyspecies, and 6 damselfly / dragonfly species)

Rarity 3 avifaunal species of conservation interest wererecorded under this study: White-bellied Sea Eagle,Emerald Dove, and White-throated Kingfisher. WhileBlack Kite and Pacific Swift were recorded at flight.

1 uncommon butterfly species of conservation interestwas recorded under this study: Small Grass Yellow.

Japanese Pipistrelle of conservation interest wasrecorded at flight under this study.

An active nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle waspreviously recorded at coastal hillside shrublandoutside the study area, 300 m and 550 m away fromthe nearest breakwater and reclamation works.

Bogadek’s burrowing lizard was previously recorded atShek Kwu Chau.

Re-creatability Moderate.Fragmentation LowEcological linkage Not functionally or structurally linked to any habitat of

high ecological valuePotential value ModerateNursery ground Nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle was previously

recorded outside the study areaAge YoungAbundance/richness of wildlife ModerateEcological value Moderate



Table 7b.24 Ecological Value of Plantation Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria PlantationNaturalness Man-made habitat, dominated by exotic species.Size Very small (0.7 ha)Diversity Floral diversity: Low (30 species)

Faunal diversity: Low to moderate (14 avifaunaspecies, 2 amphibian species, 4 reptile species, 11butterfly species, and 3 damselfly / dragonfly species)

Rarity 1 reptile species of conservation interest was recordedunder this study: Tree Gecko

Re-creatability HighFragmentation LowEcological linkage Linked to the rest of shrubland habitat around Shek

Kwu ChauPotential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge YoungAbundance/richness of wildlife Low to moderateEcological value Low

Table 7b.25 Ecological Value of Developed Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria Developed AreaNaturalness Man-made habitatSize Small (2.7 ha)Diversity Floral diversity: Low (14 species)


Rarity 1 avifaunal species of conservation interest wasrecorded under this study: Japanese ParadiseFlycatcher, with Pacific Swift recorded at flight.

Re-creatability HighFragmentation ModerateEcological linkage Not functionally or structurally linked to any habitat of

high ecological valuePotential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low

Table 7b.26 Ecological Value of Pond Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria PondNaturalness Man-made habitat used as a reservoirSize Small (0.3 ha)Diversity Floral diversity: Low (22 species)

Faunal diversity: Low to moderate (9 avifaunalspecies, 1 mammal, 4 amphibian species, 5 butterflyspecies, and 13 damselfly / dragonfly species)



Criteria PondRarity 1 avifaunal species of conservation interest was

recorded under this study: White-throated Kingfisher

1 uncommon damselfly species under this study:Eastern Lilysquatter

1 mammal species of conservation interest wasrecorded under this study: Japanese Pipistrelle (atflight).

In previous study, 1 additional uncommon damselflyspecies of conservation interest was recorded: DuskyLilysquatter

Re-creatability HighFragmentation LowEcological linkage The pond receives water from the watercourse W2;

and the pond discharges into the watercourse W1through a pond dam.

Potential value Low to moderateNursery ground Breeding ground for Eastern Lilysquatter and Dusky

LilysquatterAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low to Moderate

Table 7b.27 Ecological Value of Watercourse Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria WatercourseNaturalness Both watercourses (W1 and W2) are naturalSize Small

Watercourse W1: 51 mWatercourse W2: 110 m

Diversity Floral diversity: Low (29 species)Faunal diversity: Low to moderate (7 avifaunalspecies, 1 amphibian species, 4 butterfly species, and8 damselfly / dragonfly species, and 21 freshwaterspecies)

Rarity No rare species or species of conservation interestwas recorded under this study.

Re-creatability LowFragmentation W1: Low to moderate. A dam is present at both ends

of this watercourse.W2: Low

Ecological linkage W1 receives discharge from pond through a ponddam.

W2 feeds water into the pond.Potential value Low to moderateNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife Low to moderateEcological value Low to moderate



Table 7b.28 Ecological Value of Rocky Shore Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria Rocky ShoreNaturalness NaturalSize Small (2.3 ha)Diversity Low (34 taxa of intertidal species, and 1 avifauna

species)Rarity 1 avifauna species of conservation interest was

recorded under this study: Pacific Reef EgretRe-creatability ModerateFragmentation LowEcological linkage Not functionally or structurally linked to any habitat of

high ecological valuePotential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife Low to moderateEcological value Low to moderate

Table 7b.29 Ecological Value of Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria Subtidal Hard Bottom HabitatNaturalness Natural. Typical substratum near rocky shore.Size Not applicableDiversity Low: (15 coral species: 8 hard corals and 7 octocorals)

Coral communities were dominated by hard coralspecies Oulastrea crispata at shallow hard bottomsubstratum, and by octocorals Echinomuricea sp. andEchinogorgia sp. at the offshore muddy substratum.

Rarity 8 hard coral species were recorded under this study:1 uncommon species: Coscinaraea n sp.;7 common species: Psammocora superficialis,Oulastrea crispata, Goniopora stutchburyi, Turbinariapeltata, Tubastrea sp., Tubastrea diaphana, andDendrophyllia sp.

Re-creatability LowFragmentation LowEcological linkage Structurally and functionally linked to the preferred

habitats of marine mammal in South Lantau.Potential value ModerateNursery ground No significant records.Age Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low to Moderate



Table 7b.30 Ecological Value of Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria Subtidal Soft Bottom HabitatNaturalness Natural. Typical substratum nearby a natural rocky

shore.Size LargeDiversity Moderate (98 benthos species). The community was

strongly dominated by 2-3 opportunistic polychaetespecies (>40% of total abundance).

Rarity No rare species or species of conservation interestwas recorded under this study.

Re-creatability N/AFragmentation N/AEcological linkage Structurally and functionally linked to the preferred

habitats of marine mammal in South Lantau.Potential value Moderate.Nursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife ModerateEcological value Low to Moderate

Table 7b.31 Ecological Value of Coastal / Marine Waters at Shek Kwu Chau

Criteria Coastal / Marine WatersNaturalness Natural. The waters at the northeast, north, and

northwest of Shek Kwu Chau are in proximity to one ofthe busiest marine traffic route in Hong Kong. Thewaters are subject to pollution discharge from thePearl River.

Size LargeDiversity N/ARarity 1 marine mammal species of conservation interest was

recorded under this study: Finless Porpoise

Chinese White Dolphin of conservation interest wasalso previously recorded around the waters of ShekKwu Chau, however, only very few observations weremade.

Horseshoe crab (Tachypleus tridentatus), a species ofconservation interest, was previously recorded 600 maway from the northwest of Shek Kwu Chau.

Re-creatability Not re-creatableFragmentation Not applicableEcological linkage Structurally linked to the subtidal hard bottom habitat

with the observations of coral colonies along the ShekKwu Chau shore; also linked to the preferred habitatsof marine mammal in South Lantau waters

Potential value HighNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicable



Criteria Coastal / Marine WatersAbundance/richness of wildlife Under the long term marine mammal monitoring

survey, the 3 grids that overlapped with the IWMFreclamation site and part of the submarine cablealignment (Grids Q30-31, R31) recorded high porpoisedensities (with averaged SPSE/DPSE values of 14.93and 44.09 respectively), which were 3 to 4 timeshigher than the averages recorded in South Lantauwaters (4.3 and 11.65).

Ecological value High

Cheung Sha

Table 7b.32 Ecological Value of Shrubland Habitat at Cheung Sha

Criteria ShrublandNaturalness Habitat is secondary in nature and is dominated by

native species.Size Moderate (18.2 ha)Diversity Floral diversity: High (99 species)


Rarity Avifauna of conservation interest, Black Kite, wasrecorded at flight under this Study.

1 protected plant species was recorded under thisStudy: Aquilaria sinensis

1 amphibian species of conservation interest wasrecorded under this Study: Lesser Spiny Frog

In previous study, 2 amphibian species of conservationinterest were recorded: Short-legged Toad andRomer’s Tree Frog

Re-creatability ModerateFragmentation ModerateEcological linkage Linked to the extensive wooded area to the northwest

of the study area.Potential value ModerateNursery ground None was recordedAge YoungAbundance/richness of wildlife ModerateEcological value Moderate



Table 7b.33 Ecological Value of Developed Habitat at Cheung Sha

Criteria Developed areaNaturalness Man-made habitatSize Small (8.2 ha)Diversity Floral diversity: Moderate (62 species)

Faunal diversity: Moderate (12 avifaunal species, 1mammal species, 1 amphibian species, 3 reptilespecies, 15 butterfly species, and 1 dragonfly species)

Rarity 1 reptile species of conservation interest was recordedunder this Study: Chinese Cobra

A potential nest of Black Kite was recorded under thisStudy

Re-creatability HighFragmentation ModerateEcological linkage Not functionally or structurally linked to any habitat of

high ecological valuePotential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low

Table 7b.34 Ecological Value of Watercourse Habitat at Cheung Sha

Criteria WatercourseNaturalness Both watercourses (W1 and W2) are naturalSize Small

Watercourse W1: 499 mWatercourse W2: 103 m

Diversity Floral diversity: Low (30 species)Faunal diversity: Low to moderate (5 avifaunalspecies, 1 amphibian species, 12 butterfly species,and 2 damselfly species, and 27 freshwater species)

Rarity W1: 2 avifauna of conservation interest, Little Egretand White-throated Kingfisher, and 1 amphibian ofconservation interest: Short-legged Toad, wererecorded under this Study.

W2: 1 rare plant species, Ceratopteris thalictroides,was recorded near W2 under this Study.

In previous study: 1 reptile species of conservationinterest was recorded at W1 - Chinese Cobra; 2butterfly species of conservation interest wererecorded at W1 – Large branded Swift and CommonRose; a damselfly species of conservation interest wasrecorded at W1 – Short-winged Shadowdamsel; and 2fish species of conservation interest were recorded atW1 – Stiphodon atropurpureus and Awaousmelanocephalus.

Re-creatability LowFragmentation W1: Low

W2: Low



Criteria WatercourseEcological linkage W1: Not functionally or structurally linked to any habitat

of high ecological value

W2: Not functionally or structurally linked to any habitatof high ecological value

Potential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife Low to moderateEcological value Moderate

Table 7b.35 Ecological Value of Rocky Shore Habitat at Cheung Sha

Criteria Rocky ShoreNaturalness NaturalSize Very small (0.8 ha)Diversity Low to Moderate (53 taxa of intertidal species, and 3

avifauna species)Rarity 2 avifauna species of conservation interest were

recorded under this Study: Pacific Reef Egret andBlack Kite, with Little Egret recorded at flight.

Re-creatability ModerateFragmentation LowEcological linkage Not functionally or structurally linked to any nearby

valuable habitatPotential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low to moderate

Table 7b.36 Ecological Value of Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat at Cheung Sha

Criteria Subtidal Hard Bottom HabitatNaturalness Natural. Typical substratum near rocky shore.Size Not applicableDiversity Low, dominated by common subtidal faunaRarity No corals or other species of conservation interest was

recorded.Re-creatability LowFragmentation LowEcological linkage Structurally linked to the preferred habitats of marine

mammal in South Lantau.Potential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low



Table 7b.37 Ecological Value of Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat at Cheung Sha

Criteria Subtidal Soft Bottom HabitatNaturalness Natural. Typical substratum in southern waters.Size LargeDiversity LowRarity No species of conservation interest was recordedRe-creatability LowFragmentation LowEcological linkage Structurally linked to the preferred habitats of marine

mammal in South Lantau.Potential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife LowEcological value Low

Table 7b.38 Ecological Value of Coastal / Marine Waters at Cheung Sha

Criteria Coastal / Marine WatersNaturalness NaturalSize LargeDiversity N/ARarity No rare species or species of conservation interest

was recorded under this study.Re-creatability Not re-creatableFragmentation Not applicableEcological linkage Structurally linked to the preferred habitats of Finless

Porpoise in South Lantau.Potential value LowNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife Under the long term marine mammal monitoring

survey, the 2 grids that cover the submarine cable’slanding portal at Cheung Sha (Grids O26, P26)recorded no porpoise density.

Ecological value Low

Along the Cable Alignment

Table 7b.39 Ecological Value of Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat along the SubmarineCable Alignment

Criteria Subtidal Soft Bottom HabitatNaturalness Natural.Size LargeDiversity Moderate (80 benthos species).Rarity No rare species or species of conservation interest

was recorded during this Study.Re-creatability N/AFragmentation N/AEcological linkage Structurally and functionally linked to the preferred

habitats of marine mammal in South Lantau waters.



Criteria Subtidal Soft Bottom HabitatPotential value Moderate.

The water quality was fair despite of the majorpollution source from runoff from Pearl River duringwet season. The potential value of conservation islimited.

Nursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife ModerateEcological value Low to Moderate

Table 7b.40 Ecological Value of Coastal / Marine Waters along the Submarine CableAlignment

Criteria Coastal / Marine WatersNaturalness Natural. The waters between Shek Kwu Chau and

Cheung Sha have busy marine traffic.Size LargeDiversity N/ARarity 1 marine mammal species of conservation interest was

recorded under this Study: Finless Porpoise

Very few sightings of Chinese White Dolphin ofconservation interest were previously made withinsouthern waters (including waters around Shek KwuChau).

Re-creatability Not re-creatableFragmentation Not applicableEcological linkage Structurally linked to the preferred habitats of Finless

Porpoise in South Lantau.Potential value ModerateNursery ground None was recordedAge Not applicableAbundance/richness of wildlife Under the long term marine mammal monitoring

survey, among the 8 grids that overlapped with theIWMF footprint and submarine cables, all except 2grids recorded porpoise sightings. The average SPSEand DPSE values of these 8 grids were 7.3 and 22.6respectively, which were both higher than theaverages recorded in South Lantau waters (4.3 and11.65).

Ecological value Moderate

Shek Kwu Chau

7b.5.1.2 Habitats identified to have low ecological value in the study area include plantation anddeveloped area. Pond, watercourse, rocky shore, subtidal hard bottom habitat, andsubtidal soft bottom habitat are of low to moderate ecological value. Shrubland is ofmoderate ecological value, whereas costal/marine waters are considered to be of highecological value.

7b.5.1.3 Shrubland habitat is considered to be of moderate ecological value, supporting high floraand moderate fauna diversity. This habitat dominates the terrestrial study area in ShekSku Chau, mainly in the form of hillside shrubland due to the topography of Shek KwuChau. Fauna species of conservation interest were recorded in this habitat, including the



Bogadek’s burrowing lizard (previously recorded), and an active breeding pair of White-bellied Sea Eagle within hillside shrubland near shore.

7b.5.1.4 Coastal/marine waters is considered to be of high ecological value. Although it is subjectto pollution discharge from the Pearl River, nevertheless it is an important habitat forFinless Porpoise due to the record of high occurrence between December and May. It isalso linked to habitats of marine mammals in South Lantau waters. This habitat is foundwithin the Project footprint.

7b.5.1.5 In accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, species of conservation interest recordedin the study area of at Shek Kwu Chau are listed in Table 7b.41. Results from literaturereview are also included in the table where applicable.



Table 7b.41 Species of Conservation Interest Recorded in the Study Area of Shek Kwu Chau during the Current and Previous Studies

Common name Scientific name Locations Protection status Distribution RarityFAUNAMarine MammalFinless Porpoise Neophocaena

phocaenoidesSouth Lantau waters Cap. 170, Cap. 586, Class II

Protected Animal of PRC, IUCN RedList of Threatened Species(Category Vulnerable), CITESAppendix I

Found in the southern and easternwaters of Hong Kong

-

* Chinese WhiteDolphin

Sousa chinensis West and South Lantauwaters

Cap. 170, Cap. 586, Class IProtected Animal of PRC, IUCN RedList of Threatened Species(Category NT), CITES Appendix I

Locally found in western waters,especially the North and WestLantau waters.

-

CoralsHard Corals:

Psammocorasuperficialis

Subtidal hard bottomhabitat at shore of ShekKwu Chau

Cap. 586 Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locallyabundant

Oulastrea crispata Subtidal hard bottomhabitat at shore of ShekKwu Chau

Cap. 586 Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locallycommon

Gonioporastutchburyi



Turbinaria peltata


Cap. 586 Mostly found in northeastern andeastern waters, and occasionally foundin the southern and western waters

Locallycommon

Coscinaraea n sp.


Cap. 586 - Locallyuncommon

Tubastrea sp.


Cap. 586 - Locallycommon

Tubastrea diaphana


Cap. 586 Found at southern waters Locallycommon

Dendrophyllia sp. Subtidal hard bottomhabitat at shore of ShekKwu Chau

Cap. 586 - Locallycommon



Common name Scientific name Locations Protection status Distribution RarityOctocorals:

Dendronephthya sp.


Not applicable - Locallycommon

Menella sp.



Euplexaura sp.



Echinomuricea sp.


Not applicable Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locallycommon

Echinogorgia sp. A



Echinogorgia sp. B Subtidal hard bottomhabitat at shore of ShekKwu Chau


Paraplexaura sp. Subtidal hard bottomhabitat at shore of ShekKwu Chau


Horseshoe Crab* Tachypleustridentatus

Offshore subtidal softbottom habitat at thenorthwest of Shek KwuChau

China Red Data Book(Vulnerable) Found in a few localities in northernwestern New Territories and LantauIsland

-

AvifaunaPacific Reef Egret Egretta sacra Rocky shore at

southern Shek KwuChau

Cap. 170, China Red DataBook(Rare)

Widely distributed in coastal area inHong Kong

Locallyuncommon

White-bellied SeaEagle


Hillside shrubland, andat flight over waters andShek Kwu Chau

Cap. 170, Cap. 586, China RedData Book(Indeterminate)


Locallyuncommon

Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica Shrubland Cap. 170, China Red DataBook(Vulnerable)

Widely distributed in woodland in HongKong

Locallyscarce

White-throatedKingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis Shrubland, pond Cap. 170 Widely distributed in coastal area inHong Kong

Locallycommon



Common name Scientific name Locations Protection status Distribution RarityBlack Kite Milvus migrans At flight over shrubland Cap. 170; Class II Protected Animal

of PRC; CITES Appendix IIWidely distributed in Hong Kong Locally

commonPacific Swift Apus pacificus At flight over shrubland

and developed areaCap. 170 Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locally

commonJapaneseParadiseFlycatcher

Terpsiphoneatrocaudata

Developed area Cap. 170, IUCN Red List ofThreatened Species (CategoryLR/NT),

Found in Tai Po Kau, Mai Po, Pok FuLam, Victoria Peak

Locallyscarce

* Eurasian EagleOwl

Bubo bubo Open hillsides andoffshore islands

Cap. 170, Cap. 586, China RedData Book(Rare)

Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locallyscarce

ButterflySmall GrassYellow

Eurema brigittarubella

Shrubland Not applicable Found in Ping Shan Tsai, Yung Shue Oand Pat Sin Leng

Locallyuncommon

DamselflyEasternLilysquatter

Cercion melanotum Pond Not applicable Found in Hong Kong Wetland Park, LaiChi Wo, Luk Keng and Shek Kwu Chau

Locallyuncommon

* DuskyLilysquatter

Cercion calamorumdyeri

Pond Not applicable Found in Kai Kuk Sheu Ha, Kang MunTsui, Kwan Tei River, Lung Tsai NgYuen, River Jhelum, Tai Tong and WuKau Tang

Locallyuncommon

ReptileTree Gecko Hemiphyllodactylus

sp.Plantation near thedeveloped area

Not applicable Found in Po Toi, Aberdeen and ShekKwu Chau

Locally veryrare

* Bogadek’sBurrowing Lizard

Dibamus bogadeki Live in soil, or undersheltered microhabitatssuch as rotting woodlying on the forest floor.

Not applicable Found in Hei Ling Chau, Shek KwuChau and Sunshine Island

Locally rare

MammalJapanesePipistrelle

Pipistrellus abramus At flight over pond andshrubland

Cap. 170 Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locally verycommon

Marine FishFish spawningand nursery area

Southern waters Not applicable - -

Note: * = Previously recorded at Shek Kwu Chau



Cheung Sha

7b.5.1.6 Habitats identified to have low ecological value in the study area at Cheung Sha includedeveloped area, subtidal hard bottom habitat, subtidal soft bottom habitat, andcostal/marine waters. Rocky shore is identified to have low to moderate ecological value,whereas shrubland and watercourse is considered to be of moderate ecological value.

7b.5.1.7 Shrubland habitat at Cheung Sha has moderate ecological value with high flora andmoderate fauna diversity. Shrubland habitat dominates the majority of the study area,providing habitat for the protected plant species Aquilaria sinensis, and amphibianspecies including Lesser Spiny Frog, Short-legged Toad and Romer’s Tree Frog.

7b.5.1.8 Watercourse at Cheung Sha are natural and generally undisturbed with riparianvegetation. Low flora and low to moderate fauna diversity was recorded. Utilisation byfauna species of conservation interest including Little Egret, White-throated Kingfisher,Short-legged Toad, Chinese Cobra, Large Branded Swift, Common Rose, Short-wingedShadowdamsel, as well as fish species Stiphodon atropurpureus and Awaousmelanocephalus, and rare plant species Ceratopteris thalictroides.

7b.5.1.9 In accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, species of conservation interest recordedin the study area of at Cheung Sha are listed in Table 7b.42. Results from literaturereview are also included in the table where applicable.

Along the Submarine Cable Alignment

7b.5.1.10 Habitats identified along the submarine cable alignment include subtidal soft bottomhabitat of low to moderate ecological value, and coastal / marine waters of moderateecological value.

7b.5.1.11 Coastal/marine waters is considered to be of moderate ecological value. Although it issubject to pollution discharge from the Pearl River, nevertheless occasional sightings ofFinless Porpoise has been made. It is part of habitats of marine mammals in SouthLantau waters.

7b.5.1.12 In accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, species of conservation interest recordedin the study area along the submarine cable alignment are listed in Table 7b.42. Resultsfrom literature review are also included in the table where applicable.



Table 7b.42 Species of Conservation Interest Recorded in the Study Area of at Cheung Sha and Along the Submarine Cable Alignment duringthe Current and Previous Studies

Common name Scientific name Locations Protection status Distribution RarityFLORAIncense Tree Aquilaria sinensis Shrubland Cap. 586, Category III nationally

protected species in ChinaLowland forests and fung shui woods Locally

commonWater Fern Ceratopteris

thalictroidesWatercourse - Found in Sam A Tsuen, Lai Chi Chong,

Kam Tin, Po Toi Island and Tung PingChau

Locally rare

FAUNAMarine MammalFinless Porpoise Neophocaena

phocaenoidesOff shore marine waters Cap. 170, Cap. 586, Class II

Protected Animal of PRC, IUCN RedList of Threatened Species(Category Vulnerable), CITESAppendix I

Found in the southern and easternwaters of Hong Kong

-

* Chinese WhiteDolphin

Sousa chinensis Off shore marine waters Cap. 170, Cap. 586, Class IProtected Animal of PRC, IUCN RedList of Threatened Species(Category NT), CITES Appendix I

Locally found in western waters,especially the North and West Lantauwaters.

-

AvifaunaBlack Kite

Milvus migrans

Potential nest atdeveloped area, rockyshore

Cap. 170; Class II Protected Animalof PRC; CITES Appendix II

Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locallycommon

Pacific Reef EgretEgretta sacra

Rocky shore Cap. 170, China Red DataBook(Rare)


Locallyuncommon

Little EgretEgretta garzetta

Watercourse, at flightover rocky shore


White-throatedKingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis

Watercourse Cap. 170 Widely distributed in coastal area inHong Kong

Locallycommon

Butterfly* Large BrandedSwift

Pelopidassubochraceus

Watercourse Not applicable Found in Clear Water Bay Country Park Locally rare

* Common Rose Pachlioptaaristolochiae

Watercourse Not applicable Widely distributed in Hong Kong Locallyuncommon



Common name Scientific name Locations Protection status Distribution RarityDamselfly* Short-wingedShadowdamsel

Drepanostictahongkongensis

Watercourse Not applicable Found in Aberdeen Upper Reservoir,Big Wave Bay, Keung Shan, LantauPeak, Ngau Kwo Tin, Shek PikReservoir, Sunset Peak and Tei TongTsai

Locallyuncommon

ReptileChinese Cobra Naja atra Developed area,

watercourseCap. 586, China Red DataBook(Vulnerable)

Widely distributed in Hong Kong -

AmphibianLesser Spiny Frog

Paa exilispinosaShrubland IUCN Red List of Threatened

Species (Category Vulnerable)Widely distributed in mountain streamsin Hong Kong

Locallycommon

Short-legged Toad Xenophrysbrachykolos

Shrubland IUCN Red List of ThreatenedSpecies (Category Endangered)

Widely distributed in upland foreststreams throughout Hong Kong

Locallycommon

* Romer’s TreeFrog

Philautus romeri

Shrubland Cap. 170, IUCN Red List ofThreatened Species (CategoryEndangered)

Found in woodlands on Lantau Island,Po Toi Island, Lamma Island, HongKong Island and New Territories.

Common invariouslocalities

Fish* Philippine NeonGoby

Stiphodonatropurpureus

Watercourse Not applicable Found in a few streams in North-East ofNew Territories and on Lantau Island

Locallyuncommon

* Black-headedThick-lipped Goby

Awaousmelanocephalus

Watercourse Not applicable Found in a few streams on Hong KongIsland and Lantau Island

Locally rare

Note:*Previously recorded under another study within the study area of this Project



7b.6 Identification and Evaluation of Environmental Impacts

7b.6.1 Introduction

7b.6.1.1 The construction of the proposed Project is scheduled to commence in 2013 andcomplete in 2018. The proposed marine construction works would involve reclamation,and construction of breakwater, cofferdam and berth at Shek Kwu Chau (Figure 2.8);laying of submarine cable between Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha (Figure 7b.3); andconstruction of a landing portal at Cheung Sha (Figure 7b.3).

Reclamation, and Cofferdam and Breakwater Construction at Shek Kwu Chau

7b.6.1.2 Marine works, including filling, reclamation, and dredging would cause the stirring up ofseabed sediment, resulting in sediment suspension and release of contaminants (if any),and hence degradation in water quality in the marine habitat. Non-percussive bore pilingmethod would be adopted for the installation of tubular piles for the berth construction;and the installation of circular cells for cellular cofferdam and circular cell breakwaterwould involve driving of sheet piles in place using vibratory hammer or hydraulic impacthammer (details are presented under Section 2).

7b.6.1.3 As species/habitats of conservation importance, including corals, Finless Porpoise andChinese White Dolphin, have been identified within and in the vicinity of the marine works,it is anticipated that significant ecological impact would be resulted if no mitigationmeasures are implemented.

7b.6.1.4 Noting the ecological importance of the Project site, the Project Proponent has madealteration to the phasing of works, construction method, and layout plan of the IWMF, inorder to minimise its ecological impacts (details are included in Section 7b.8).

Submarine Cable Laying between the IWMF at the artificial island near SKC and CheungSha

7b.6.1.5 The submarine cable alignment would connect the IWMF at the artificial island near SKCwith Cheung Sha. The installation of submarine cables would employ subsea buryingmachine to form narrow cable trench at sea bed up to 5 m deep by water jetting and laythe submarine cable spontaneously. A short length of cable trench would be formed byopen cut method using dredger for closing sections near the shore end at Cheung Sha.

Construction of Landing Portal at Cheung Sha

7b.6.1.6 Proposed works mainly comprise of small-scaled construction and excavation works, theconstructional runoff may result in sediment suspension and release of contaminants, andhence degradation in water quality in the nearby intertidal habitat and marine waters.

7b.6.2 Construction Phase

Direct Impact

Habitat and Fauna loss

7b.6.2.1 While the proposed Project Site at Shek Kwu Chau has been identified as a hotspot forFinless Porpoise, in order to minimise the loss of Finless Porpoise habitat, the primarydesign of the seawall and breakwater has been revised to this current design. Thefollowing table summarizes the habitats to be directly affected under the Project:



Table 7b.43 Area of Habitat to be Directly Affected under the Project

Shek Kwu ChauReclamation 7.9 haCofferdam 2 haBreakwater 4.1 haBerth 1.9 haEmbayment 15.1 haAnti-scouring layer 1.5 haCheung ShaLanding portal 20 m2

Along submarine cable alignmentSubmarine cable trench 5.8 km long, 17,400 m2

Habitat to be DirectlyAffected

Measurement beforeAmendment of Layout

Plan

Measurement afterAmendment of LayoutPlan (Current Design)

Shek Kwu ChauMarine mammal habitat 50 ha 31 haSubtidal soft bottom habitat 24.3 ha 17.2 haSubtidal hard bottom habitat 0.2 ha 0.2 haFish spawning and nurserygrounds

23 ha 15.9 ha

Cheung ShaIntertidal and subtidal habitat 20 m2 20 m2

Along submarine cable alignmentSubtidal soft bottom habitat 5.8 km long, 17,400 m2 5.8 km long, 17,400 m2

7b.6.2.2 The impact assessment for this study is based on the current design and constructionmethod.

Shek Kwu Chau

7b.6.2.3 The proposed reclamation and breakwater construction would be located away from therocky shore, in order to avoid / minimize direct loss of intertidal habitat, as well as thehard bottom subtidal habitat near shore. No direct impact on the terrestrial habitat,intertidal habitat and its associated communities are expected to arise due to the works.

Marine mammal habitat loss during construction

7b.6.2.4 With a conservative evaluation approach, this study assumes the whole embaymentenclosed within the proposed works would become inaccessible to marine mammals dueto avoidance of construction works and working vessels. Although the opening of thebreakwater would allow water circulation between the waters outside and within thebreakwater, nevertheless, the physical structure of breakwater would restrict theaccessibility of marine mammals, and that boats and vessels within the breakwater wouldlead to disturbance, which may in turn limit the foraging range and communication ofmarine mammals with each other.

7b.6.2.5 As previously discussed, in order to minimise the loss of Finless Porpoise habitat, theoriginal design of Project has been revised to the current design, where the total size ofhabitat loss for marine mammals had significantly reduced from 50 ha down to 31 ha.



7b.6.2.6 While marine mammals utilize a large range of area, where frequent sightings of FinlessPorpoise have been made at the southwest waters further offshore of Shek Kwu Chauduring this current study (Figure 7b.13); these results indicate that suitable habitat ofsimilar quality are available in the surrounding waters of Shek Kwu Chau. FinlessPorpoise may utilise these waters when the works areas are not available duringconstruction phase.

7b.6.2.7 Nevertheless, while the south and southwest waters of Shek Kwu Chau have beenidentified as important habitat for Finless Porpoise, due to the high utilization rate duringthe current study and the long term marine mammal monitoring survey by the AFCD, thepotential impact on Finless Porpoise due to the loss of the remaining 31 ha of habitat isstill considered to be high. Mitigation measures are required.

Subtidal hard bottom habitat loss (and the associated corals) during construction

7b.6.2.8 The large majority of subtidal habitat within the works area composed of soft bottomsubstrate. The term ‘subtidal hard bottom habitat’ used under this discussion refers to therocks and boulders that are scattered along and near the shore of Shek Kwu Chau.

7b.6.2.9 An estimated loss of subtidal hard bottom habitat can be quantified by: length ofreclamation area along shore x extent of recorded locations of corals (which are attachedto hard surfaces) from boundary of reclamation area near shore to the recorded corallocation furthest away from shore, which is approximately 400 m x 25 m = 10,000 m2 = 1ha. During the REA survey, it was recorded that scattered boulders had a percentagecover of approximately 20% (conservative approach) along REA transects T10-T13.Therefore the estimated size of 1 ha can be refined as: 1 ha x 20% = 0.2 ha. Theestimated loss of subtidal hard bottom habitat is approximately 0.2 ha.

7b.6.2.10 Coral communities found attached to hard bottom surfaces within the works area, alongthe REA transects T10-T13, comprise approximately 198 colonies. Only one hard coralspecies, Tubastrea sp., and 7 species of octocorals were recorded within the directlyaffected area. Table 7b.44 presents a summary of REA results for the REA T10-T13.Table 7b.45 presents the corals species recorded within the directly affected area.

Table 7b.44 Brief Summary of REA Survey Results within the Reclamation Area atShek Kwu Chau

REA TransectsT10 T11 T12 T13

Coral Coverage <1% <1% <1% <1%Total No. of CoralColonies 36 40 73 49Total No. of CoralSpecies 6 5 7 6Size Small Small Small SmallHealth Condition Fair Fair Fair FairTotal No. of MovableCoral Colonies (Rocksize <50cm diameter)

36 40 73 49

Dominant Coral Species Tubastrea sp.,Menella sp.

Tubastrea sp. Echinomuriceasp.

Echinomuriceasp.



Table 7b.45 Potentially Affected Coral Species Recorded within the ReclamationArea at Shek Kwu Chau

Species Rarity in Hong KongHard Corals (1)

Tubastrea sp. CommonSoft Corals / GorgonianDendronephthya sp. CommonMenella sp. CommonEuplexaura sp. CommonEchinomuricea sp. CommonEchinogorgia sp. A CommonEchinogorgia sp. B CommonParaplexaura sp. CommonNote:

1. All hard coral species are protected under Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and PlantsOrdinance (Cap. 586)

7b.6.2.11 Within the subtidal hard bottom habitat to be directly affected by the proposed works, atotal of 8 coral species (1 hard coral species, 7 soft coral species – Table 7b.44-45) of198 colonies of small sizes and low coverage (<1%) were recorded. The coral speciesrecorded were all common in Hong Kong waters. Considering the species composition,the ecological value of the potentially affected subtidal hard bottom habitat is consideredto have a comparatively lower ecological value than the subtidal hard bottom habitatnearer to shore.

7b.6.2.12 Nevertheless, as permanent loss of a small area of subtidal hard bottom habitat(approximately 0.2 ha) and the associated corals would be directly affected, potentialimpact on corals within the works area is considered to have moderate impact andtherefore mitigation measure would be required.

7b.6.2.13 According to the results of the coral REA surveys, all directly affected coral colonies wereattached on movable boulders with diameter of <50 cm. In order to mitigate the directimpact to corals, translocation of directly affected coral colonies attached to movablerocks should be recommended.

7b.6.2.14 Previous experience on successful coral translocation includes the EIA-112/2005 –Proposed Extension of Public Golf Course at Kau Sai Chau Island, Sai Kung (HKJC,2005). A total of 89 coral colonies were transplanted to a nearby site in late November2006 due to construction works. The recipient site is 80 m to the south of a ferry pierwhere corals were already present on the bedrocks. Monitoring surveys for transplantedcorals were conducted quarterly for one year (4 surveys in total: from December 2006 toSeptember 2007).

7b.6.2.15 According to the Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) reports during the coralmonitoring period between December 2006 and September 2007, by the end of themonitoring period, 86 out of 89 transplanted corals were recovered and their conditionremained similar with the baseline condition before transplantation (HKJC, 2007a-d).Only a total of 3 colonies went missing; and within the 86 remaining colonies, only 3colonies showed some degree of mortality (30-80%) (ibid.). No signs of mortality norbleaching were noted in the rest of the 83 transplanted coral colonies (ibid.). With over93% of transplanted corals remained in the same condition before transplantation, and notrigger of Event and Action Level, coral translocation is considered to be an effectivemeasure to avoid direct loss of corals under this Project.



Subtidal soft bottom habitat loss during construction

7b.6.2.16 With the original design, the total size of subtidal soft bottom habitat loss would be 24.3ha. As previously discussed, in order to minimise the intensity of impacts on marineecological resources, the design of the Project has been revised. The total size ofsubtidal soft bottom habitat loss had reduced from 24.3 ha down to 17.2 ha.

7b.6.2.17 The potentially affected subtidal soft bottom habitat of approximately 17.2 ha is composedof sandy and muddy substrate. Benthic communities recorded during the grab samplingsurveys were dominated by common typical surface deposit feeders and opportunisticspecies, and no rare species or species of conservation interested was recorded in therecent surveys. Considering the low to moderate ecological value of the habitat, potentialimpact of the loss of subtidal soft bottom habitat and the associated benthic communitiesis considered to be low.

Loss of fish spawning and nursery ground during construction

7b.6.2.18 The footprint of works overlaps with the previously identified fish spawning and nurseryground (AFD, 1998). Fish spawning and nursery grounds are important habitats, as theyare essential to the regeneration and long-term survival of various organisms, adverseimpact on existing grounds should be mitigated.

7b.6.2.19 As previously discussed, in order to minimise the intensity of impacts on marineecological resources, the design of the Project has been revised. With the revised designfor the Project, the area of fish spawning and nursery ground to be lost has reduced from23 ha down to 15.9 ha (current design), hence minimizing the adverse impact on theregeneration of marine fisheries.

7b.6.2.20 Considering that the 15.9 ha of loss would only account for an insignificant amount of thetotal fish spawning and nursery ground in the southern waters, the predicted loss of 15.9ha is considered to be insignificant.

7b.6.2.21 Moreover, it should be noted that during a more updated fisheries baseline surveys(ichthyoplankton and post-larvae) conducted under EIA-125/2006 Liquefied Natural Gas(LNG) Receiving Terminal and Associated Facilities: Part 2 South Soko (CLP, 2006), thesurvey results concluded that the densities for fish larva and eggs at all sampling stationsat South and West Lantau waters (including 2 stations at Shek Kwu Chau) were generallylow; the degree of difference in densities between stations were small; and therefore itwas concluded that there was no observable difference in fish larvae and egg densitiesbetween the identified spawning and nursery grounds at southern waters of Hong Kong,and the waters at Western Lantau, which was not identified to be important spawning andnursery grounds (ibid.).

Cheung Sha

7b.6.2.22 The proposed landing portal at Cheung Sha would permanently occupy a small area ofintertidal and subtidal habitat (total = 20 m2). Slight encroachment into the backshorevegetated area of 750 m2 may also be resulted during construction for siting ofconstruction plants.

Intertidal habitat loss during construction

7b.6.2.23 The potentially affected intertidal rocky shore habitat is composed of large boulders invarious forms and is a typical exposed rocky shore in Hong Kong. While the intertidalspecies recorded were common across other natural rocky shores in Hong Kong, and thearea to be lost is small, potential loss of intertidal habitat and the associated rocky shorecommunities due to the Project is considered to be insignificant.



Subtidal habitat loss during construction

7b.6.2.24 Towards the end of the proposed submarine cable near the shore of Cheung Sha, a shortlength of cable trench would be formed by open cut method using dredger for closingsections near shore ends. The potentially affected subtidal habitat is composed of muddysubstrate with scattered boulders. Considering that no rare species or species ofconservation interest were recorded during dive and benthos surveys, the potential lossof subtidal habitat of low ecological value and of small size is considered to beinsignificant.

Backshore vegetated area loss during construction

7b.6.2.25 Although the proposed landing portal would be situated at an intertidal rocky shore, slightencroachment into the backshore shrubland habitat may arise (750 m2) duringconstruction phase due to siting of construction plants. Potential vegetation loss wouldbe limited to the backshore area and temporary in nature. Common backshore speciessuch as Ipomoea pes-caprae, Cerbera manghas, Hibiscus tiliaceus, and Pandanustectorius may be directly affected. Considering that no rare nor protected floral specieswere recorded at the backshore vegetated area within the works area at intertidal habitat,the potential loss of backshore vegetated area of very small size is considered to beinsignificant.

Submarine Cable Alignment (between Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha)

Subtidal soft bottom habitat loss during construction

7b.6.2.26 During the submarine cable laying process (for details please refer to Section 2: ProjectDescription), the subsea burying machine would create a trench of about 5 m deep, 3 mwide and about 5.8 km long by performing water jetting. The cable would be laid into thetrench spontaneously. Minor disturbance to about 17,400 m2 of subtidal soft bottomhabitat is therefore expected, and its associated benthic communities would betemporarily affected.

7b.6.2.27 The potentially affected subtidal habitat is composed of muddy substrate with scatteredboulders. No coral species was recorded at the coastal subtidal hard bottom habitatduring the coral spot-check surveys. The benthos recorded during grab sampling surveyswas dominated by common typical surface deposit feeders and opportunistic species, norare nor species of conservation importance were recorded.

7b.6.2.28 Moreover, it should be noted that benthos community of the temporarily affected areasare expected to recolonise the seabed areas after the short period of submarine cablelaying operation (about 20 working days). In view of the low to moderate ecological valueof the subtidal habitats and temporary nature of the impact, the potential impact onsubtidal habitat and the associated benthos communities due to submarine cable layingworks is considered to be low.

Indirect Impact – Marine-based Construction

7b.6.2.29 Potential indirect impacts due to marine-based works include:

(i) Increase in Suspended Solids

7b.6.2.30 The disturbance on seabed during dredging increases the level of suspended solids (SS)in water. The effect of SS on marine organisms depends on several factors, such asspecies tolerance, life mode of organisms (sessile or free-swimming), growth form ororientation of sessile organisms and water movement. Sessile filter feeders aresusceptible to deleterious impacts from elevated SS in the water column throughsmothering and clogging of their respiratory and feeding apparatus. Increased turbidity



due to elevation in SS may reduce the amount of light reaching beneath the watersurface. Lethal (e.g. mortality) and sub-lethal (e.g. slow growth rate and low inreproductive success rate) impacts on marine life may occur. All these impacts mayeventually cause the reduction in population size of marine communities/populations.

7b.6.2.31 Considering the presence of coral communities along the coast of Shek Kwu Chau, andthe sensitivity of marine organisms to SS, revision has been made to the originalconstruction method for breakwater and the surrounding structure of reclamation area,with the objective to minimise SS elevation during construction phase.

7b.6.2.32 With the adoption of the current cellular cofferdam to surround the reclamation area, andcircular cell breakwater to protect the reclamation area, the dredging volume hassignificantly reduced from 79,141 m3 (original seawall structure) to 26,200 m3 (currentlyproposed circular cells).

7b.6.2.33 In addition, for filling activities for circular cells and reclamation area, phasing of workshas been adopted to minimise cumulative impacts from SS elevation. All filling workswould be conducted within enclosed environment. More details on phasing of works arepresented in Section 7b.8.

7b.6.2.34 To assess the potential water quality impacts on marine organisms, the existing ambientenvironmental conditions would be taken into account, where a certain level of SS isreceived from Pearl River. The general water quality objective of a 30% increase fromthe ambient condition would be adopted as the assessment criteria, as adopted in theEIA-174/2009 Tuen Mun - Chek Lap Kok Link (HyD, 2009c). The existing ambient valuefor SS concentration at the Project Site is 10.7 mg/L during dry season, and 8.4 mg/Lduring wet season.

7b.6.2.35 As covered in the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b), the following tablepresents the calculated elevation of SS levels assuming the worst case scenario:

Table 7b.46 Calculated Suspended Solids (SS) Concentrations at Shek Kwu Chauunder Unmitigated Dredging Scenario (Dredging Rate 4000 m3/day,without silt curtain)

Distance from Source (m) Suspended Sediment Elevation (mg/L)15 69750 209100 105200 52.2300 34.8400 26.1500 20.9600 17.4700 14.9800 13.1900 11.6

7b.6.2.36 As shown in Table 7b.46, without mitigation, the level of SS elevation due to the dredgingoperation at the nearest works area would reach 697 mg/L (minimum distance from theoriginally proposed dredging boundary to Shek Kwu Chau coast is 15 m), which is farabove the relevant assessment criteria, indicating potential adverse impact on the existingmarine organisms.



7b.6.2.37 In order to mitigate the potential impact on marine species, especially corals, and habitatdue to SS elevation, silt curtain would be adopted (reduction of SS dispersion by 75%),and no dredging operation for anti-scouring protection layer would be carried out within100 m from the nearest coral communities (Figure 5b.4). The anti-scouring protectionlayer would be constructed without dredging within 100 m from the coral communities.

7b.6.2.38 To further mitigate the potential impacts from SS elevation, it is proposed to reduce themaximum allowable production rate from 4000 m3/day to 380 m3/day, with no more than15 grabs per hour using grab size of approximately 2 m3 for anti-scouring protection layerconstruction. Details are discussed in Section 5b, and Table 5b.11-5b.12 under WaterQuality Impact Assessment (Section 5b).

7b.6.2.39 After the adoption of silt curtain, limitation on extent of dredging works for anti-scouringprotection layer, reduction of dredging rate, and limitation on number of grabs per hourand grab size, the predicted maximum SS elevation at the nearest coral communities todredging works (100 m away) would significantly reduce to 2.5 mg/L, which complies withthe SS criterion of elevation from 30% of the ambient SS (i.e. 10.7 mg/L during dryseason and 8.4 mg/L during wet season).

Intertidal communities

7b.6.2.40 Elevation of SS level due to reclamation, circular cells installation and dredging may resultin degradation in water quality in the vicinity of the natural rocky shore along the coasts ofShek Kwu Chau; while construction works for the landing portal and submarine cablewould also affect the water quality of the adjacent rocky shores at Cheung Sha. ElevatedSS may reduce the amount of light reaching algae in rocky shores, inhibiting their growth,and settlement of elevated SS may cause the smothering of intertidal organisms.

7b.6.2.41 As previously discussed, and as shown in Table 5b.11, with the adoption of silt curtain,limitation on extent of dredging works, and reduction of dredging rate, the predictedmaximum SS elevation from works to the nearest intertidal communities (over 100 maway) would greatly reduce to 2.5 mg/L, which complies with the SS criterion of elevationfrom 30% of the ambient SS (i.e. 10.7 mg/L during dry season and 8.4 mg/L during wetseason). It is therefore considered that significant adverse impact on intertidalcommunities due to SS elevation from the dredging operation would not be anticipated.

Coral communities

7b.6.2.42 Coral communities were recorded along the shoreline of the study area at Shek KwuChau. Of particular ecological concern, hard corals may be harmed by high SS level.The reduction in light availability due to elevation in SS may inhabit photosynthesis ofsymbiotic algae associated with hard corals, leading to bleaching and mortality of hardcorals.

7b.6.2.43 As previously discussed, and as shown in Table 5b.11 with the adoption of silt curtain,limitation on extent of dredging works, and reduction of dredging rate, the predictedmaximum SS elevation from works to the nearest non-translocatable coral communities(approximately 100 m away) would greatly reduce to 2.5mg/L, which complies with the SScriterion of elevation from 30% of the ambient SS (i.e. 10.7 mg/L during dry season and8.4 mg/L during wet season). It is therefore considered that significant adverse impact oncoral communities due to SS elevation from the dredging operation would not beanticipated.

7b.6.2.44 A total of 2 colonies of an uncommon coral Coscinaraea n sp. was found in REA transectT9, approximately 250 m away from the breakwater construction. With the adoption of siltcurtain and reduction in dredging rate, adverse impact on Coscinaraea n sp. due to SSelevation is expected to be insignificant.



7b.6.2.45 The construction of the seawall discharge for disposal of brine water generated from thedesalination plant would be minimal. No disturbance on the seabed sediment shouldarise.

Soft bottom benthic communities

7b.6.2.46 Increase in SS level and sedimentation due to marine works may affect the benthiccommunities in the vicinity of the proposed works area. Considering that no rare norspecies of conservation importance was recorded; benthic communities within and in thevicinity of the study area of Shek Kwu Chau, Cheung Sha and along the cable alignmentwas dominated by polychaetes (an opportunistic surface deposit feeders in disturbedenvironment); and that benthic communities have high tolerance of SS elevation, as it is anormal phenomenon for SS deposition at subtidal habitat; no significant indirectdisturbance on benthic communities due to SS elevation is expected.

Marine mammals

7b.6.2.47 While Finless Porpoise and Chinese White Dolphin use echolocation and vision to forage,they are less vulnerable to SS impact than other filter feeders. Nevertheless, the potentialincrease in SS concentration may influence the prey of marine mammals, and affectmarine mammals indirectly by the loss of supply due to disturbance of seafloor andincrease in sedimentation (Jefferson et al., 2009).

7b.6.2.48 As previously discussed, with the implementation of mitigation measures recommendedunder Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b.8), elevation of SS level isexpected to be acceptable, hence the prey items of marine mammals are not expected tobe adversely affected.

7b.6.2.49 In addition, elevation of SS level is considered to have limited impact on Finless Porpoiseand Chinese White Dolphin, as they use lung to breath, they would not be exposed therisk of gill blockage due to high concentration of SS in water.

Horseshoe crabs

7b.6.2.50 During a previous study, adult horseshoe crab was recorded at the offshore subtidal softbottom habitat at the northwestern waters of Shek Kwu Chau (Chiu & Morton, 1999).While juvenile horseshoe crabs are often found in intertidal soft shore areas, and buriedunder sediment during high tide and under low temperature; and adult horseshoe crabsthat occur at the western waters of Hong Kong are exposed to pollution and SStransported from Pearl River; adult and juvenile horseshoe crabs are therefore consideredto be tolerant of high SS level.

7b.6.2.51 Considering that the distance between the proposed works area and the previouslyidentified recorded horseshoe crab location is over 600 m, and suitable habitat forjuvenile horseshoe crabs was not found within or in the vicinity of the Project Site; with theadoption of water quality mitigation measures, SS elevation would comply with theassessment criteria. In addition, unlike sessile marine organisms, horseshoe crab couldswim away from affected area; potential impact on Horseshoe Crab due to elevation inSS level is expected to be minor and acceptable.

Degradation in quality of important fish spawning and nursery ground in the southernwaters

7b.6.2.52 The proposed dredging activities at Shek Kwu Chau would temporarily elevate the SSlevel and create sediment plumes. Effects on spawning and nursery fishes could belethal or sublethal. Reduction in survivorship, growth rate, and reproductive potentialwould be resulted due to stress incurred by the constant need to flush out depositedmaterial. High SS level may clog the gill structure of fish and cause physical damage and



hinder transfer of oxygen. Fish egg and larval fish (fry) are more susceptible todeleterious impacts from sedimentation through smothering and clogging of theirrespiratory systems. Adult fish are generally less sensitive to effects from SS.

7b.6.2.53 SS plume occurs naturally in the marine environment by wave action and vertical flux ofwater current. Fish has evolved behavioural adaptation to fluctuation in turbidity, such asclearing their gills by flushing water, or simply moving to less turbid waters.

7b.6.2.54 As previously discussed, after the adoption of silt curtain, limitation on extent of dredgingworks, and reduction of dredging rate, the resulted maximum SS elevation would begreatly reduced to 2.5 mg/L, which complies with the SS criterion of elevation from 30% ofthe ambient SS (10.7 mg/L during dry season and 8.4 mg/L during wet season). It istherefore considered that significant adverse impact on fish spawning and nursery grounddue to SS elevation from the dredging operation would not be anticipated. Details onwater quality are discussed in Section 5b.7.3.22 to 5b.7.3.30, and Table 5b.10 to 5b.12under Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b).

7b.6.2.55 For the cable alignment works between Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha, whichoverlaps with the previously identified potential fish spawning and nursery grounds, themodelling and calculation conducted under the Water Quality Impact Assessment(Section 5b) indicated that the sediments disturbed during the laying of submarine cablewould remain within 1 m above the seabed (independent on the water depth), and settleonto the seabed within approximately 80 m from the cable alignment (Section 5b.7.4.1 to5b.7.4.7). The whole submarine cable installation process would be about 20 workingdays. The suspended solids resulted from cable laying may have adverse impact on thepotential fish spawning and nursery ground as previously discussed. Considering thelocalised nature of sediment plume and short term duration of works, as well as thenatural adaption of fish, no significant impacts are expected on the potential fishspawning and nursery ground due to the submarine cable laying works. In addition, mostof the influence zone of the cable laying works would be far away from the Shek KwuChau site. The cable laying works is not expected to cause cumulative water qualityimpact with the dredging for sheet piling at Shek Kwu Chau. For cable laying works closeto Shek Kwu Chau, it is recommended that the construction program should be arrangedso that the laying works and the dredging work would operate at least 80 m apart to avoidany cumulative impact on water quality (in case if such tight schedule is necessary).

7b.6.2.56 For the construction of Cheung Sha landing portal, surface runoff and disturbance onseabed may be resulted from cut and cover works, which may result in adverse impact onthe important fish spawning and nursery grounds. Considering the small scale of landingportal works, existing turbid condition, and absence of ecological sensitive receiver alongthe shoreline, with the adoption of good site practise and water quality control measures,potential impact on ecological resources during construction of Cheung Sha portal isconsidered to be acceptable.

(ii) Changes in Sedimentation Rate

7b.6.2.57 As the extent of sediment plume from marine works is not expected to disperse to thecoral sites, full compliance with the SS criterion (maximum elevation of ambient SS levelby 30%) is predicted at all of the identified coral communities (Section 5b). As a result,the sedimentation rate at the coral sites is not expected to be significantly affected by theproposed works. This criterion for assessing SS impacts on corals (maximum elevationof ambient SS level by 30%) was adopted under the approved EIAs for Tuen Mun -Chek Lap Kok Link (HyD, 2009a), Hong Kong - Zhuhai - Macao Bridge Hong KongBoundary Crossing Facilities (HyD, 2009b), Hong Kong - Zhuhai - Macao Bridge HongKong Link Road (HyD, 2009c), and Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works Stage 5 (DSD,2004). No significant adverse impact in terms of sedimentation is therefore expected atcoral sites and on other marine fauna.



(iii) Decrease in Dissolved Oxygen

Suffocation of marine organisms and degradation of fish spawning and nursery area inthe southern waters

7b.6.2.58 According to the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b), no significant DOdepletion was predicted under this Project even under unmitigated scenario. Thedredging activities would cause a maximum DO depletion of less than 0.1 mg/L at thenearest sensitive receiver (corals located 100 m away). Full compliance with the WQOfor depth-averaged DO was predicted. Hence, no significant adverse impacts on marinefauna, including corals, benthic communities, as well as fish spawning and nurseryground, due to changes in DO level would be expected from the dredging works.

(iv) Release of Contaminants

7b.6.2.59 Dredging activities would disturb the sediments at seabed and cause water turbulence,which may result in release of pollutants and contaminants from the seabed sediment intothe water column. Backfilling activities may also release pollutants and contaminants intothe marine environment from the filling materials.

7b.6.2.60 Increase in pollutant or contaminant levels could cause lethal or sub-lethal toxic effects tomarine fauna. Potential toxic effects on marine fauna would depend on several factors,such as species tolerance, contaminant levels, water flow rate, etc.

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals and organochlorines in marine mammals

7b.6.2.61 Contamination by organochlorine compounds and mercury is thought to threaten marinemammals in South China coastal waters (IUCN, 2009). Potential increase incontaminants may result in bioaccumulation in marine mammals through their intake ofprey items, which have been contaminated by the released contaminants. Previousstudies suggested that high concentrations of organochlorines and heavy metals in thetissue of Finless Porpoise may reduce their reproductive capacity and causeimmunosuppression (Parsons et al., 1998; Minh et al., 1999; Jefferson et al., 2002c;Ramu et al., 2005).

7b.6.2.62 According to the sediment quality monitoring survey conducted by EPD in 2008 (EPD,2009), the monitoring station closest to the Project Site, SS6, reflected no sedimentcontamination. Based on the laboratory test results conducted under this study (Section6b), the assessment indicated that unacceptable elevation of contaminant levels due tothe proposed marine works would be unlikely. Significant impact regardingbioaccumulation of heavy metals and organochlorines in marine mammals and othermarine fauna is therefore not expected.

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals and organochlorines in fishes within the spawning andnursery area in the southern waters

7b.6.2.63 Dredging activities may result in the release of contaminants from marine sediments.Potential impacts on fisheries resources include the accumulation of contaminants in fishtissues, resulting in sub-lethal effects which may alter behaviour, reproduction andincrease susceptibility to disease. Eggs, larvae and juveniles are particularly susceptibleto the sub-lethal effects of contaminants, and elevated levels may lead to increasedmortality.

7b.6.2.64 According to the sediment quality monitoring survey conducted by EPD in 2008 (EPD,2009), the monitoring station closest to the Project Site, SS6, reflected no sedimentcontamination. Based on the laboratory test results conducted under this study (Section6b), the assessment indicated that unacceptable elevation of contaminant levels due tothe proposed marine works would be unlikely. Significant impact regarding



bioaccumulation of heavy metals and organochlorines in adult fish, as well as fish egg,larvae and juveniles are therefore not expected.

(v) Underwater Acoustic Disturbance on Marine Mammals

7b.6.2.65 Around the works area of the IWMF near Shek Kwu Chau, Cheung Sha landing portaland along the route of submarine cables, underwater noise generated from increasedamount of vessel traffic, piling, dredging, backfilling, constructional works and cabletrench forming works would cause acoustic disturbance on the marine mammals.

7b.6.2.66 Marine mammals are acoustically-sensitive animals, and sound is vital to their survivalsince they rely on the ability to echolocate in order to detect their surroundings, and tocommunicate with each other. Although no underwater blasting would be involved in thisProject, however, noise from piling activities, as well as vessel traffic could be very loud,and can mask sounds porpoises use during foraging, either by affecting the return echothey emit to determine the location and shape of nearby items, or their echolocationcapabilities. Therefore, noise from marine construction works and vessel traffic is apotential concern, and is likely to result in behavioural disturbance on porpoises.

7b.6.2.67 According to Goold and Jefferson (2002), Finless Porpoise uses narrowband and high-frequency ultrasonic pulses with peak energy of 142 kHz. While dredgers and large,slow-moving vessels generally produce very low frequency sounds (Richardson et al.,1995), the expected acoustic disturbance from dredging and large, slow-moving vesselsshould be well below the acoustic range of porpoises.

7b.6.2.68 Nevertheless, noise generated during piling works may result in significant impact onmarine mammals due to masking of sounds by construction noises if unmitigated.Potential impacts that may arise include threat to marine mammal’s survival, due to lossof ability to echolocate for surrounding detection and to forage, as well as disturbance onthe ability to communicate between individuals. Considering the potential consequencesof underwater acoustic disturbance on marine mammals, unmitigated noise impact duringpiling works is considered to be of low to moderate severity and significant disturbance onmarine mammals is predicted. Mitigation measures are considered necessary.

Underwater disturbance from bored piling

7b.6.2.69 A berth area would be constructed during Phase 3 (construction sequence is detailed inSection 7b.8 and Figure 2.8) for the berthing of marine vessels for transportation ofcontainers and staff / visitors, and for storage of MSW containers.

7b.6.2.70 Installation of tubular piles for the berth construction would involve piling activities, whichmay result in underwater acoustic disturbance on marine mammals. Potential impactfrom unmitigated piling activities on Finless Porpoise include threat to survival due todisturbance on echolocation and foraging ability, as well as disturbance oncommunication between individuals, as discussed in Section 7b.6.2.68. Mitigationmeasures are required to minimise impacts to acceptable levels.

Underwater disturbance from sheet piling

7b.6.2.71 The installation of cellular cofferdam and breakwater (Phase 1 and 3) would involvedriving of sheet piles into the seabed using vibratory hammer or hydraulic impacthammer. Potential acoustic disturbance on Finless Porpoise due to unmitigated pilingworks may include threat to survival due to disturbance on echolocation and foragingability, as well as disturbance on communication between individuals, as discussed inSection 7b.6.2.68. Mitigation measures are required to minimise impacts to acceptablelevels.



(vi) Increase in Marine Traffic

Alteration of behavioural pattern of marine mammals

7b.6.2.72 Potential increase in number of vessels may disrupt marine mammal’s behaviouralpattern. Hung (2008) suggested that dolphin usage within shipping lanes was lower thanthe areas near the lanes, indicating that local dolphins may alter their diving and surfacingpattern, or reduce their time in vessel traffic lanes to avoid collision with marine vessels.The increased vessel traffic in the vicinity of the works area may result in short-termbehavioural disturbance to marine mammals, which may avoid them from their preferredhabitats.

7b.6.2.73 While the current proposed marine traffic route would go through the southern waters ofCheung Chau and Shek Kwu Chau with high utilisation rate of Finless Porpoise, theutilisation of the sea area by Finless Porpoise may be affected due to increase in marinetraffic. The diving and surfacing pattern of Finless Porpoise may be disturbed due toattempts to avoid collision with marine vessels. The change in usual behavioural patternmay affect their health and survivorship due to limitation on forage range, alteration ofbreathing pattern, as well as interaction between individuals. The potential impacts areconsidered to have low to moderate severity and therefore mitigation measures arerequired.

Injury and mortality of marine mammals due to collision with vessels

7b.6.2.74 Collision with vessels, especially involving high-speed ferries, is a particular threat tomarine mammals in Hong Kong (Parsons et al., 2000). The increased traffic of workingvessels during construction may increase the chance of injury and mortality of marinemammals due to collision with vessels (Parsons et al., 2000; Jefferson et al., 2002b). Theincreased amount of marine traffic and vessel speed are considered to have low tomoderate severity and therefore mitigation measures should be implemented.

(vii) Entering of Marine Mammals into the Works Area

7b.6.2.75 Silt curtains would be installed during construction works that may result in degradation ofwater quality. Enclosure of works area with silt curtain would minimise the dispersion ofsediment plume from the works area. Details of silt curtain installation methods arepresented in Appendix 5b.5.

7b.6.2.76 Works with full enclosure of silt curtain include:

Sheet piling and filling for circular cells for cofferdam and breakwater construction –floating type silt curtain around the circular cell (Phase 1 and Phase 3);

Filling for reclamation area – floating type silt curtain across the 50 m wide opening ofthe reclamation area for marine access (Phase 2);

Anti-scouring dredging – frame-type silt curtain around grab (upon completion ofPhase 3); and

Maintenance dredging (if required during operation phase) - frame-type silt curtainaround grab.

7b.6.2.77 During the installation/re-installation/relocation process of floating type silt curtains,marine mammals may accidentally enter the works area, and be entrapped within.Nevertheless, upon the completion of installation/re-installation/relocation process of siltcurtains, the works area would be fully enclosed by silt curtain and the risk of entrapmentof Finless Propose no longer exist.



7b.6.2.78 During reclamation works at Phase 2, a 50 m wide opening at the reclamation peripheralfor marine assess would adopt a floating type silt curtain to minimise dispersion ofsediment plume. As the silt curtain would be opened occasionally for marine access,marine mammals may accidently enter the works area, and be entrapped within.

7b.6.2.79 The potential trapping of marine mammal within the works area may result in increase instress level due to proximity to working vessels and underwater noise during construction.In addition, higher chance of collision with vessel may also be resulted due to confinedenvironment with presence of working vessels. Considering the potential impacts due todeployment of silt curtains on marine mammals, low to moderate level of impact ispredicted. Mitigation measures would be required to minimise the risk of accidentalentrance of marine mammals into the works area.

(viii) Release of Contaminants during Transportation and Disposal of DredgedSediments

7b.6.2.80 Apart from dredging operations, potential spillage of sediments may also be resultedduring transportation of dredged sediment due to overloading of barges or carelesshandling, and disposal of dredged sediments in improper areas.

7b.6.2.81 Such incidence may result in the release of pollutants and contaminants (if any) into thereceiving waters, causing adverse impact on the well-being of ecologically sensitivereceivers, i.e. marine mammals and corals.

7b.6.2.82 According to laboratory test results, the dredged material would have all contaminantlevels not exceeding the Lower Chemical Exceedance Level (LCEL) (Category L:sediments with little or no contamination) (Section 6b). Currently, there are two sites fordisposal of uncontaminated sediment: (1) South of Cheung Chau, and (2) East ofNinepin. The Marine Fill Committee shall decide which site to dispose the sediment at alater stage. Disposal of sediments would be restricted to designated disposal areas, inorder to minimise any unacceptable impacts on the marine habitat and its associatedfauna, including Finless Porpoise which has high occurrence in the Southern Lantauwaters. No significant impact on marine fauna is expected to arise due to transportationand disposal of dredged sediments.

7b.6.2.83 Nevertheless, good practices for loading of barges and careful handling of dredgedsediments are still considered necessary to minimize the potential increase in suspendedsolids level from spillage of dredged sediments. Measures recommended in the WasteManagement Implications section (Section 6b.5) and Water Quality section (Section5b.8) should be adopted.

(ix) Extraction and Placement of Fill Materials

7b.6.2.84 Fill materials for the circular cells and reclamation would be extracted from the CEDDPublic Fills. Extracted fill materials would be transported to the required area and usedimmediately. During the transportation and disposal of extracted fill materials, potentialadverse impact on water quality may arise due to accidental spillage of fill materials.Although the potential impact on water quality is considered to have low impact, howevergood practice for loading of barges and careful handling of extracted materials should beadopted to minimise impacts from accidental spillage.



(x) Disturbance on Avifauna

Shek Kwu Chau

Pacific Reef Egret, White-bellied Sea Eagle and Eurasian Eagle Owl

7b.6.2.85 During the current study, two species of avifauna species of conservation interest, PacificReef Egret and White-bellied Sea Eagle, were sighted at the rocky shore and the vicinityshrubland habitat at Shek Kwu Chau respectively. Both species are locally uncommonresident and is confined to coastal rocky areas (HKBWS, 2009; Viney et al., 2005). Theintertidal natural rocky shore is considered to be an important habitat for these twospecies. Another species of conservation interest, Eurasian Eagle Owl, was previouslyrecorded at Shek Kwu Chau (HKU, 1998), which favours open hillsides and offshoreislands (Viney et al., 2005).

7b.6.2.86 Potential secondary impact due to degradation in water quality, including deterioratedquality at feeding ground and reduction of food availability, may affect avifauna whichutilise the nearby areas. Although no direct loss of intertidal habitat and the associatedshrubland habitat would be resulted, and habitat of the same quality is available aroundthe whole of Shek Kwu Chau; nevertheless, implementation of water quality controlmeasures are still considered necessary to minimise the impact of degradation in marinewater quality to acceptable level.

7b.6.2.87 Increase in marine traffic, presence of human, and construction noise (including pilingworks) may cause disturbance on avifauna species present in the area, especially forWhite-bellied Sea Eagle, which is known to be sensitive to human disturbance. Theincrease in disturbance may cause the avoidance of works area and decrease in feedingopportunities, hence affecting the health and may be breeding success of avifauna whichutilises the nearby areas. Considering the high mobility of avifauna, they can utilise thesimilar habitat in the vicinity; the temporary nature of construction works is therefore notexpected to have significant adverse impact on avifauna in terms of habitat utilisation.Nevertheless, appropriate noise mitigation measures would still be required to minimisenoise impact on avifauna to acceptable level.

7b.6.2.88 As artificial lighting may be provided at night during construction phase, the change induration and intensity of lighting in the vicinity may disrupt the behavior of avifauna,including White-bellied Sea Eagle which has a nest 300 m away from the nearest works(breakwater). Impact of artificial lighting on avifauna species include disorientating birdsby interfering with the magnetic compass of the birds (Poot et al., 2008), disruption inbehavioural patterns such as reproduction, fat storage (Rawson, 1963; Lack, 1965), andforaging pattern (Lebbin et al., 2007).

7b.6.2.89 Although avifauna have already been exposed to artificial lighting from the existingsettlement, however, the coastal shrubland habitat near the works area was lessdisturbed at present due to the difference in elevation from the settlement; hence avifaunawithin the coastal shrubland may be affected. Mitigation measures should beimplemented to minimise impact from glare disturbance.

Nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle

7b.6.2.90 WBSE is known to be sensitive to human disturbance during breeding season, and mayabandon a nest in some cases. For the active breeding nest of WBSE at Shek KwuChau, the aforementioned impacts (degradation in habitat and foraging ground quality,increase in marine traffic, presence of human, construction noise, and glare disturbance)may affect the breeding success of the existing pair.



7b.6.2.91 Major constructions works that may cause disturbance on the breeding nest include:

sheet piling works for construction of cofferdam surrounding the reclamation area(Phase 1);

sheet piling works for construction of the shorter section of breakwater (Phase 1);

sheet piling works for construction of the remaining section of breakwater (Phase 3);and

bored piling works for berth area (Phase 3).

7b.6.2.92 While the estimated distance from the nest to the nearest works from breakwater, berthand cofferdam are approximately 350 m, 500 m, and 550 m respectively, the breedingsuccess of the WBSE pair may be affected. In extreme cases, nest abandonment mayoccur as the existing location may no longer consider being a suitable breeding locationdue to the disturbance during construction phase.

7b.6.2.93 Nevertheless, some previous studies have reported breeding success for nests nearhuman settlement. The nest at Tai Ngam Hau had been recorded since 2002/2003; it islocated about 500 m from a pier and settlement at Ma Lam Wat (AFCD, 2010). Breedingbehaviour was noted every year and the pair had successfully produced fledglings in sixof the seven survey years, which is regarded to be the most productive pair among theother pairs in Hong Kong (ibid.). The Tai Ngam Hau nest has demonstrated that WBSEhas a certain level of tolerance from human disturbance and could achieve breedingsuccess under human disturbance.

7b.6.2.94 Moreover, as WBSE is a highly mobile species, with a range and territory size from 3.8km to as far as 18.7 km (AFCD, 2010); with the availability of similar habitat in the vicinityof the Project Site (i.e. the rest of hillside shrubland at Shek Kwu Chau, and other remoteislands in the vicinity, e.g. Soko Island, Hei Ling Chau), WBSE could utilise other areas inthe vicinity.

7b.6.2.95 Implementation of mitigation measures, including avoidance noisy works during thebreeding season of WBSE, should be considered to minimise adverse impacts on theWBSE breeding nest due to construction noise disturbance.

Cheung Sha

Pacific Reef Egret

7b.6.2.96 During the current study, a total of 2 individuals of a species of conservation interest,Pacific Reef Egret, were recorded foraging at the isolated rocks off the shore of CheungSha (500 m away from works). Ecological status of this species has been described inTable 7b.7.

7b.6.2.97 Potential secondary impact on Pacific Reef Egret may be resulted from small-scaledhabitat loss and deterioration of quality at feeding ground (at rocky shore at Cheung Sha),and reduction of food availability, due to degradation of marine water quality during works.Although the recorded individuals were located 500 m away from the proposed landingportal, however, considering the mobility of this species and its frequent utilisation ofnatural rocky shore, potential indirect impact may be resulted during construction phase.

7b.6.2.98 Considering that the area to be permanently lost is insignificant compare to the rest of thenearby rocky shore, and habitat of the same quality is available along the rest of theCheung Sha rocky shore; Pacific Reef Egret is not expected to be significantly affected interms of habitat utilisation. Nevertheless, implementation of water quality controlmeasures is still considered necessary to minimise the impact from degradation infeeding ground / water quality to acceptable level during construction.



7b.6.2.99 During construction, increase in marine traffic and noise may cause disturbance onavifauna species which utilise the nearby areas. Considering the high mobility ofavifauna, they can utilise habitat of similar habitat in the vicinity. The proposed noisemitigation measures in Section 4b, as well as adoption of good site practice, such as useof well maintained plants, should be implemented to minimise noise impact to acceptablelevel.

Black Kite

7b.6.2.100 An individual of Black Kite (Milvus migrans) was recorded foraging at the isolated rocksoffshore at Cheung Sha. Black Kite, a species with Class II Protection Status in China, isconsidered to be locally common and is also a winter visitor (HKBWS, 2009; Viney et al.2005). As discussed in the above 2 paragraphs, implementation of water quality controlmeasures is considered necessary to minimise the impact from degradation in feedingground / water quality to acceptable level during construction.

7b.6.2.101 The potential nest of Black Kite located inland within developed habitat at a metal tower,may be disturbed by construction noise. Considering the distance between the nest (in-land) and the coastal works (300 m), and difference in elevation between the two areas,no significant impact on Black Kite’s nest is expected.

(xi) Disturbance on Terrestrial Habitats and their associated Flora and Fauna

Shek Kwu Chau

7b.6.2.102 Indirect impacts on terrestrial habitats of Shek Kwu Chau may also arise during marine-based construction of the IWMF.

Shrubland

7b.6.2.103 The coastal shrubland habitat facing the Project Site would be affected by increasedhuman activities and noise disturbance from construction machinery and vessels.Potential consequences to wildlife include avoidance of areas in the vicinity of the worksareas, and decline in density in areas close to the source of disturbance.

7b.6.2.104 White-bellied Sea Eagle, a species of conservation interest, has been recorded in theshrubland habitat facing the Project Site. Potential impact on such species has beenpreviously discussed. Indirect impacts including increase in human activities and noisedisturbance from construction works may arise.

7b.6.2.105 Although no direct loss of shrubland habitat would be resulted, and habitats of the samequality is available around the whole of Shek Kwu Chau; nevertheless, the adoption ofmitigation measures such as noise reduction, and minimisation of glare disturbance (ifany) should be recommended to minimise potential disturbance on White-bellied SeaEagle and other inhabiting fauna due to indirect disturbance on shrubland habitat toacceptable level.

Other habitats

7b.6.2.106 Other habitats including plantation, developed area, pond, and watercourse are notexpected to receive significant indirect impacts from the Project, due to the difference inelevation of the habitats and the works area, and their distance apart. Potential impactson plantation, developed area, pond, and watercourse, and their associated faunagroups, are considered to be minimal.



Cheung Sha

7b.6.2.107 Indirect impacts on terrestrial habitats of Cheung Sha may arise during construction oflanding portal:

Shrubland

7b.6.2.108 The coastal shrubland habitat facing the proposed landing portal would be affected byincreased human activities and noise disturbance from construction plants and vessels.Potential consequences to wildlife include avoidance of areas in the vicinity of the worksareas, and decline in density in areas close to the source of disturbance. Although nofauna species of conservation interest was recorded at shrubland habitat in the vicinity ofthe proposed works, nevertheless, implementation of measures such as adoption of quietpowered mechanical equipment, and full enclosure for static plant, as discussed underNoise Impact report (Section 4b.8), should be implemented to minimise disturbance onwildlife in the vicinity of the works area.

7b.6.2.109 One individual of a locally protected plant species, Aquilaria sinensis, was recorded at thecoastal shrubland habitat, which was approximately 40 m away from the proposedlanding portal at the rocky shore. Although the plant individual is not located within worksarea, nevertheless, considering the short distance from works (40 m), mitigationmeasures should still be recommended to avoid direct damage as well as indirectdisturbance, i.e. dust impact.

Other habitats

7b.6.2.110 Other inland habitats including developed area and watercourse are not expected toreceive significant indirect impacts from the Project, due to the difference in elevation ofthe habitats and the works area, and their distance apart. Potential impacts on the inlandhabitats are considered to be minimal.

Direct Impact – Terrestrial-based Construction

7b.6.2.111 The term ‘terrestrial-based construction’ at Shek Kwu Chau refers to works to beconducted on the newly reclaimed offshore land. During Phase 3, upon completion ofsurcharge loading of the reclaimed land, construction of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)treatment facilities and the associated supporting facilities would commence on the newlyreclaimed land.

7b.6.2.112 There is no physical connection of the reclaimed land to the Shek Kwu Chau island.Works would only be conducted within the newly reclaimed land, no direct loss ofterrestrial habitats would occur at the Shek Kwu Chau island.

Indirect Impact – Terrestrial-based Construction

7b.6.2.113 Potential indirect impacts due to terrestrial-based works include:

(i) Disturbance on Pacific Reef Egret, White-bellied Sea Eagle, and Eurasian Eagle Owl

7b.6.2.114 As previously discussed, potential impacts on avifauna in the vicinity of works area duringmarine-based construction, including degradation of habitat quality and foraging grounddue to runoff, increase in marine traffic, presence of human, construction noise, and glaredisturbance, also applies to terrestrial-based construction works. Considering themobility, range, territory size, and the availability of similar habitat in the vicinity (i.e. therest of hillside shrubland at Shek Kwu Chau, and other remote islands in the vicinity, e.g.Soko Islands, Hei Ling Chau), avifauna could utilise other habitats in the vicinity duringconstruction phase. Mitigation measures for water quality control, noise minimisation,



glare disturbance minimisation, and careful work scheduling to avoid noisy piling worksduring the breeding season of White-bellied Sea Eagle, would be recommended tominimise adverse disturbance on avifauna due to terrestrial works to acceptable levels.

(ii) Disturbance on Other Terrestrial Fauna and Flora

7b.6.2.115 Potential impacts on terrestrial fauna and flora during terrestrial-based construction workson the newly reclaimed land would be the same as the impacts on terrestrial fauna andflora as identified during marine-based construction works. Potential impacts identifiedinclude disturbance on the coastal shrubland habitat facing the Project Site due toincrease in human activities and noise disturbance from construction machinery andvessels. Although no direct loss of shrubland habitat would be resulted, and habitats ofthe same quality is available around the whole of Shek Kwu Chau; nevertheless,mitigation measures for noise reduction, and glare minimisation (if any) would berecommended to minimise disturbance to acceptable levels. No significant indirectimpacts are predicted on the coastal shrubland habitat.

7b.6.2.116 Other habitats including plantation, developed area, pond, and watercourse are notexpected to receive significant indirect impacts during terrestrial-based constructionworks, due to the difference in elevation of the habitats and the works area, and theirdistance apart. Potential impacts on plantation, developed area, pond, and watercourse,and their associated fauna groups, are considered to be minimal.

(iii) Drainage and Construction Site Runoff

7b.6.2.117 Runoff from the construction works area may contain increased sediment load, other SSand contaminants, and may subsequently affect the receiving water bodies (e.g. marineenvironment for Shek Kwu Chau). Entrance of runoff with high SS loading from worksarea into the sea may lead to elevation in SS level in water quality, and subsequentlyaffect the associated marine life, i.e. bleaching of corals, decrease in prey abundance forFinless Porpoise, and degradation in habitat quality for potential fisheries resources.Potential impacts from drainage and site runoff is considered to have low to moderateimpacts. Mitigation measures should be implemented to control construction site runoffand drainage from the works areas, and to prevent runoff and drainage water with highlevels of SS and contaminants from entering the nearby water bodies.

(iv) Accidental Spillage

7b.6.2.118 Accidental spillages of chemicals in the works area may contaminate the ground surface.The contaminated ground particles may get washed away via site drainage into themarine environment, causing degradation in water quality, hence adverse impact on theassociated fauna, i.e. intertidal communities, marine mammals and corals. Species thatare intolerant to the change in water composition may result in decrease in survival rate.Although the potential impacts from accidental spillage is considered to have low severity,nevertheless, adoption of good site practise should be adopted to minimise the potentialimpacts.

(v) Sewage Effluent

7b.6.2.119 Domestic sewage would be generated from the workforce during construction phase.Unmitigated discharge may degrade the quality of the receiving water body, henceadversely affecting its associated organisms and resulting in low to moderate impacts.Good site practise should be adopted to avoid the discharge of untreated sewage.



7b.6.3 Operation Phase

Direct Impact

Shek Kwu Chau

Permanent loss of habitat for marine mammals

7b.6.3.1 With a conservative evaluation approach, this study assumes the whole area enclosedwithin the breakwater and reclamation, which is 31 ha in size, would become permanentlyinaccessible to marine mammals due to avoidance of regular operation phasedisturbance, including entrance and exit of container vessels and staff vessels. Asalready discussed under the “Construction Phase” direct impact assessment, where theoriginal design of Project has been revised to the current design in order to minimise theloss of Finless Porpoise habitat, the total size of permanent habitat loss for marinemammals had significantly reduced from 50 ha down to 31 ha.

7b.6.3.2 While marine mammals utilize a large range of area, where frequent sightings of FinlessPorpoise have been made at the southwest waters further offshore of Shek Kwu Chauduring this current study (Figure 7b.13), these results indicate that suitable habitat ofsimilar quality are available in the surrounding waters of Shek Kwu Chau. FinlessPorpoise may utilise these waters when the waters to be permanently occupied by theIWMF is no longer available.

7b.6.3.3 Nevertheless, while the south and southwest waters of Shek Kwu Chau have beenidentified as important habitat for Finless Porpoise, due to the high utilization rate duringthe current study and the long term marine mammal monitoring survey by the AFCD, thepotential impact on Finless Porpoise due to the permanently loss of 31 ha of habitat is stillconsidered to be high.

7b.6.3.4 To mitigate such impact, adequate measure, i.e. setting up of a marine park at an areawith high density of Finless Porpoise, should be recommended to minimise the impact toacceptable level. More details for the mitigation of habitat loss for Finless Porpoise arepresented in Section 7b.8.

Permanent loss of subtidal hard bottom habitat

7b.6.3.5 As previously discussed, the term ‘subtidal hard bottom habitat’ refers to the rocks andboulders that are scattered along and near the shore of Shek Kwu Chau. An estimatedloss of subtidal hard bottom area is approximately 0.2 ha. During dive survey, it wasrecorded that the habitat to be affected supported a total of 8 coral species of 198colonies of small sizes and low coverage (<1%) (1 hard coral species, 7 soft coral species– Table 7b.44-45). All species recorded are common in Hong Kong waters. Althoughpermanent loss of habitat would be resulted, but as the area to be lost is small in size,new hard surfaces of the reclaimed land, cofferdam and breakwater would be availablefor the recolonisation of corals, potential impact due to the permanent loss of subtidalhard bottom habitat is considered to be low to moderate.

Permanent loss of subtidal soft bottom habitat

7b.6.3.6 As discussed under the “Construction Phase” direct impact assessment, the originaldesign of Project has been revised to the current design in order to minimise the intensityof impacts on marine ecological resources. The total size of subtidal soft bottom habitatto be permanently occupied by the footprint of the IWMF during operation phase hadbeen reduced from 24.3 ha down to 17.2 ha.

7b.6.3.7 The 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat to be permanently lost is composed of muddyand sandy substrate, and is physically connected to, or forms part of the important habitat



for Finless Porpoise. As previously mentioned in this chapter, the benthic communitiesrecorded within the reclamation area (benthos survey sampling points P1 and P2)showed dominance of opportunistic deposit-feeding polychaetes; whereas the benthiccommunities recorded outside the reclamation area (benthos survey sampling point P3,P4 and P5) showed higher averaged diversity index, species evenness and lowerabundance of opportunistic species. Given the above, the subtidal soft bottom habitatwithin the works area is considered to have lower ecological value than the surroundingareas. In addition, as no rare species or species of conservation importance wererecorded during the recent benthos surveys, potential impact due to the permanent lossof subtidal soft bottom habitat is considered to be low.

Permanent loss of fish spawning and nursery ground

7b.6.3.8 As already discussed under the “Construction Phase” direct impact assessment, in orderto minimise the potential adverse impacts from permanent loss of fish spawning andnursery ground on the regeneration and long-term survival of various organisms, thedesign of the Project has been revised and the permanent lost has been reduced from 23ha down to 15.9 ha (current design). Considering that the 15.9 ha of loss would onlyaccount for an insignificant amount of the total fish spawning and nursery ground in thesouthern waters, the predicted permanent loss is therefore considered to be insignificant.

7b.6.3.9 Moreover, a more updated study as mentioned in Section 7b.6.2.21 had concluded thatthere was no observable difference in fish larvae and egg densities between thepreviously identified spawning and nursery grounds at southern waters of Hong Kong,and the waters at Western Lantau, which was not identified to be important spawning andnursery grounds (CLP, 2006), the prediction of insignificant impact due to the permanentloss of the previously identified fish spawning and nursery ground is further supported.

Indirect Impact

Shek Kwu Chau

(i) Alteration in Flow Regime

7b.6.3.10 According to the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b), based on thereclamation layout plan, as well as the water depths and current velocity immediatelyaround the southwest coastline of Shek Kwu Chau, it was calculated that the proposedreclamation near Shek Kwu Chau would block no more than 1% of the tidal flowdischarge. Hence, no significant change in the generalized flow patterns in the southernwaters would be expected from the proposed Project.

7b.6.3.11 The breakwaters around the IWMF would reduce the water current within the shelteredwater for the safety of the vessels in the Project Site. The change in local flow regimemay affect the coral sites along the shore by changes in flushing of sediments, andexchange of gas and nutrients between corals and the surrounding waters, henceresulting in threat on coral’s health and survival in long run due to change insedimentation pattern and depletion in gas and nutrient in the surrounding waters due tostagnant waters within the channel.

7b.6.3.12 According to the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b.7.9.1), the chance ofthe waters within the embayment, and the channel between the reclaimed land andshore, from turning into a piece of stagnant water after reclamation is minimal. Theproposed breakwaters only partially enclose the embayment area, leaving a huge void forwater to exchange with the surrounding. The width of the opening of breakwater at thenarrowest location is about 210 m.

7b.6.3.13 During the current flow from northwest to southeast and vice versa during flood and ebbtide in the Project Site, the 210 m opening of the breakwater, which opens at the



northwest direction, would allow effective water exchange in either tide condition. Aconservative approach was adopted during water quality assessment. With theassumption that a humble current velocity of 0.05 m/s (which is approximate the 10th

percentile flow velocity as shown in Table 5b.16) would present across the openingduring an ebb or flood tide, the water within the 15.1 ha of embayment area would becompletely replaced within 3 hours. It is therefore expected that the exchange of water inthe embayment with the surrounding waters would be sufficient.

7b.6.3.14 The proposed siting of the IWMF at an artificial island near SKC would create a channelbetween the IWMF structure and the Shek Kwu Chau shoreline. The channel would bearound 10 – 40 m wide and 400 m long. The depth of water may vary greatly at differentlocations as the channel is located at coastal area. For the deeper side of the channel(near the reclaimed land), the water depth would be about 8.9 m. As previouslydiscussed, the current flows from northwest to southeast direction and vice versa duringflood and ebb tide, which is similar to that of the direction of the channel. The flowdirection would allow the flood and ebb current to pass through the channel easily. Asconstant water flow would be maintained in the channel during operation phase, thechance of the channel becoming stagnant after reclamation is unlikely. In addition, theconstriction at the opening of the channel may increase the overall flow speed within thechannel when compared to the existing situation. Previous studies have documented thatenhanced water flow stimulates photosynthesis within a coral colony (Hoogenboom et al.,2009; Finelli et al., 2006; Sebens et al., 2003; Shashar et al., 1996; Patterson et al., 1991;Dennison et al., 1988)

7b.6.3.15 As the subtidal habitat within the channel was observed to mainly comprise bed rock andboulders during dive survey, the risk of SS elevation within the channel and theassociated change in water quality (reduction in light penetration) due to potentialenhanced flow and subsequently erosion is not anticipated. Considering that the coralspecies within the channel have widespread distribution and are regarded as commonwithin Hong Kong, and that the current flow would be maintained between the channeland the surrounding waters, the creation of channel between the IWMF structure andShek Kwu Chau shoreline is therefore not predicted to have significant adverse impact onthe exiting coral communities.

7b.6.3.16 Potential impact on coral communities due to alteration in flow regime is thereforepredicted to be acceptable during operation phase. Monitoring surveys for coral duringconstruction and operation phases would be recommended to verify the predictedimpacts.

(ii) Alteration in Sedimentation Pattern

7b.6.3.17 Ecological sensitive receivers including coral communities are sensitive to sedimentdeposition. The marine embayment formed by the proposed breakwaters would reducethe local currents and enhance sediment deposition within the embayment area, whichmay have an effect on the existing coral communities.

7b.6.3.18 According to the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section 5b.7.11.2), the keypollution / sediment source within the Study Area would be the Pearl River in the far field.The exiting baseline sedimentation rates simulated by the Update Model (Hyder et al.,1999) which took account of the cumulative effect from all the coastal pollution dischargesincluding the Pearl River are given in Appendix 5.1. The sedimentation rate criterionadopted under the approved EIA for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Receiving Terminal andAssociated Facilities for protection of marine ecological sensitive receivers was 200g/m2/day. As shown in Appendix 5.1, the existing maximum baseline sedimentationrates predicted in the Study Area are lower than 6 g/m2/day, which are well below theassessment criterion of 200 g/m2/day. Based on the proposed Project layout at ShekKwu Chau, reduction in the local tidal currents is expected within or near the newbreakwaters. As there is a great safety margin of over 97% between the baseline



sedimentation rates (6 g/m2/day) and the criterion value (200 g/m2/day), and consideringthat there would be no existing / planned sediment source within the new breakwaters, itis not expected that the presence of the proposed breakwaters and reclaimed land wouldcause significant adverse impact on corals due to alteration in sediment pattern during theoperation phase.

(iii) Maintenance Dredging

7b.6.3.19 Currently, there is no plan for regular maintenance dredging. Depend on the actualsedimentation and scouring condition, maintenance dredging within the embayment areamay be required to provide safe marine access route for the daily marine transportation.The need for maintenance dredging would be determined by onsite survey after thecompletion of this Project.

7b.6.3.20 If maintenance dredging is considered necessary during operation phase, potentialimpact on marine habitat and associated marine ecological resources may arise ifunmitigated. As previously discussed under ‘Indirect Impact- Marine-based Construction’under this chapter, most of the identified potential impacts from marine-basedconstruction works also apply to maintenance dredging works during operation phase,including increase in suspended solids, degradation in quality of important fish spawningand nursery ground in the southern waters, changes in sedimentation pattern, decreasein dissolved oxygen, release of contaminants, underwater acoustic disturbance on marinemammals, increase in marine traffic, entering of marine mammals into the works area,and release of contaminants during transportation and disposal of dredged sediments.

7b.6.3.21 If unmitigated, significant adverse impacts on health, reproduction and survival may beresulted on intertidal, coral and soft bottom benthic communities, marine mammals, andthe previously identified potential important spawning and nursery area in the southernwaters. Although the duration of maintenance dredging would be short term and small inscale, nevertheless, considering the presence of marine species of conservation interestin the vicinity, including corals, marine mammals, and the potential important spawningand nursery area, moderate level of impact is anticipated and mitigation measures wouldbe required to minimize potential adverse impacts to acceptable levels.

(iv) Wastewater from Incineration Plant and Mechanical Treatment Plant

7b.6.3.22 The IWMF would have zero discharge of wastewater during operation. A wastewatertreatment plant would be provided on-site to treat the wastewater generated from theIWMF (mainly human sewage). The treated effluent would be reused on-site (e.g.landscape irrigation).

(v) Discharge of Saline Water from Desalination Plant at Seawall Outfall

7b.6.3.23 Approximately 1,520 m3/day of saline water would be generated from the proposeddesalination plant and discharged to the sea at the southern boundary of the proposedreclamation site (Figure 5b.6 under Water Quality Impact Assessment). The dischargeof concentrated saline water at ambient temperature at the proposed seawall outfall mayaffect the nearby ecological resources, including corals and marine mammal’s preydistribution in the immediate waters. The brine water drained from the desalination plantwould be concentrated seawater (about 1.7-1.8 time more concentrated than the rawseawater). There would be no temperature elevation in the brine water discharge ascompared to the ambient water temperature. No other biocides / anti-fouling chemicals(such as chlorine and C-treat-6) would be used for the proposed desalination plant.Instead, membrane would be backwashed frequently to prevent fouling problem. Thebackwash water, which contains chemical for cleansing the membrane filter, would bediverted to the onsite sewage treatment works.



7b.6.3.24 According to the detailed discussion in the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section5b.7.6.8 – 5b.7.6.14), the saline water to be discharged from the desalination plant wouldcomply with effluent discharge standard (Table 5b.14). With the adoption of aconservative approach during quantitative assessment, the maximum predicteddownstream influence distance of the saline water discharge is about 72 m away from theoutfall (Table 5b.19). According to Section 5b.7.6.10, the required dilution rate is about8 times, which is far less than the predicted minimum dilution rate of 90 times from thenear field modelling results (Section 5b.7.6.14). Considering that the identified corals arelocated more than 200 m away from the saline water discharge outfall, which is outsidethe influence zone (72 m) from the saline water discharge; prey items of marine mammalsare not expected to be significantly affected by the discharge due to their capacity insalinity tolerance; and the discharge would only include saline water with no biocides /anti-fouling agents; no significant adverse impacts on marine fauna are anticipated.

(vi) Degradation in water quality at fish spawning and nursery area in the southern waters

7b.6.3.25 Under unmitigated scenario, the discharge of untreated sewage during operation maydeteriorate the water quality of the marine habitat, hence causing adverse impact on theassociated organisms.

7b.6.3.26 While the IWMF would adopt a “zero-discharge” scheme, no untreated sewage would bedischarged into the marine environment during operation phase, no significant impactfrom discharge of untreated sewage is expected to arise.

7b.6.3.27 The brine water to be discharged from the desalination plant during operation phasewould be concentrated seawater (about 1.7-1.8 time more concentrated than the rawseawater). The design flow of the desalination plant would be up to about 1,520 m3 perday.

7b.6.3.28 There would be no temperature elevations in the brine water discharge as compared tothe ambient water temperature. No other biocides / anti-fouling chemicals (such aschlorine and C-treat-6) would be used for the proposed desalination plant.

7b.6.3.29 According to the detailed discussion in the Water Quality Impact Assessment (Section5b.7.6.14), the influence zone of saline discharge be negligible at 72 m downstream fromthe outfall (Table 5b.19). As marine fishes usually have a higher salt tolerance thanfreshwater fish, no significant adverse impact on fishes due to discharge of concentratedsaline water is expected.

7b.6.3.30 Besides, the discharged saline water would comply with the standards for effluentsdischarged into the marine waters of Southern WCZ. No wastewater effluent, heavymetals and other contaminants would be released during operation phase of the Project.No significant adverse impact on fish spawning and nursery area is anticipated.

(vii) Entrainment and impingement of fish eggs and juvenile fishes

7b.6.3.31 At the proposed water intake point for water supply at the desalination plant, the pullingforce at the intake point may damage the local fish, due to impingement (physical collisionwith the screen at intake point) and entrainment (uptake of fish along with seawater).

7b.6.3.32 Although the rate of the water intake is slow (2,460 m3/day), however, for the adult andjuvenile fish species that could not resist the pulling force at the water intake point,impingement may occur at the intake screen, due to their larger body size. For thesmaller sized fish, larvae and eggs, entrainment may occur due to the pulling force fromwater intake.

7b.6.3.33 Considering that the results presented in the fisheries baseline surveys (ichthyoplanktonand post-larvae) (CLP, 2006) revealed that the densities for fish larvae and eggs at all



sampling stations in South and West Lantau waters of Hong Kong were generally low;and there was no observable difference in fish larvae and egg densities between theidentified spawning and nursery grounds at southern waters of Hong Kong, and that atWestern Lantau, which was not identified to be important spawning and nursery grounds(ibid.); potential impact on fisheries due to entrainment and impingement is considered tobe low. Nevertheless, adoption of a protective screen at the seawater intake point tominimise uptake of fish should be considered.

(viii) Increased Marine Traffic

7b.6.3.34 The proposed MSW barge frequency during operation phase would be 4 round trips/day.The visitor/staff shuttle ferry frequency was originally proposed to be 16 round trips/day;but revision was made to the frequency considering the potential disturbance impacts onmarine mammals between Cheung Chau and Shek Kwu Chau (to be discussed later).The revised visitor/staff shuttle ferry frequency has reduced to 12 round trips/day(adopted frequency for this study).

7b.6.3.35 The proposed marine traffic route would go through the southern waters of Cheung Chauand Shek Kwu Chau, which has high occurrence of Finless Porpoise. The additionalmarine traffic due to this Project may increase underwater acoustic disturbance onFinless Porpoise, as well as increased risk of collision with vessel and change inbehavioural pattern.

7b.6.3.36 According to Goold and Jefferson (2002), Finless Porpoise uses narrowband and high-frequency ultrasonic pulses with peak energy of 142 kHz. While the MSW barges arelarge, slow-moving vessels, which produce very low frequency sounds (Richardson et al.,1995), the expected acoustic disturbance from the MSW barges should be well below theacoustic range of porpoise; hence no significant adverse impacts from underwater noisefrom marine traffic is expected.

7b.6.3.37 Nevertheless, the increased traffic of visitors/staff shuttle ferry during operation mayincrease the chance of injury and mortality of marine mammals due to collision withvessels (Parsons et al., 2000; Jefferson et al., 2002b), as well as disruption of marinemammal’s behavioural pattern. Hung (2008) suggested that dolphin usage withinshipping lanes was lower than the areas near the lanes, indicating that local dolphins mayalter their diving and surfacing pattern, or reduce their time in vessel traffic lanes to avoidcollision with marine vessels.

7b.6.3.38 While the current proposed marine traffic route would go through the southern waters ofCheung Chau and Shek Kwu Chau with high utilisation rate of Finless Porpoise, theutilisation of the sea area by Finless Porpoise may be affected. The diving and surfacingpattern of Finless Porpoise may be disturbed due to attempts to avoid collision withmarine vessels. The change in usual behavioural pattern may affect their health andsurvivorship due to limitation on forage range, alteration of breathing pattern, as well asinteraction between individuals.

7b.6.3.39 Considering the increased marine traffic and marine traffic route to be adopted at waterswith high utilisation rate of Finless Porpoise, potential impact level on Finless Porpoise isconsidered to be low to moderate. Adoption of appropriate mitigation measures would berequired to minimise potential impacts to acceptable levels.

(ix) Trapping of Marine Mammal within the Channel behind the IWMF

7b.6.3.40 The proposed layout would create a coastal channel of about 10-40 m in width, and 400m in length between the existing southwest coast of Shek Kwu Chau and the proposedreclamation. Considering that the subject area is identified as an important habitat for theFinless Porpoise, creation of such a channel may potentially increase the risk of trappingof marine mammal.



7b.6.3.41 Considering the physical dimension of the channel, Finless Porpoise is not expected to beprevented from going into and out of the channel. However, the physical existence of theIWMF structure and regular marine traffic during operation phase may reduce theutilisation of habitat by marine mammals. It is therefore expected that the potential oftrapping of marine mammals within the channel behind the IWMF is insignificant.Nevertheless, monitoring survey should be adopted to verify the impact predication.

(x) Ecological Light Pollution by Artificial Lighting

7b.6.3.42 Artificial lighting would be provided at the facilities at night during operation. The changein duration and intensity of lighting may disrupt the behavior of fauna, including the nest ofWhite-bellied Sea Eagle at the hillside shrubland habitat about 550 m away from theIWMF.

7b.6.3.43 Impact of artificial lighting on avifauna species include disorientating birds by interferingwith the magnetic compass of the birds (Poot et al., 2008), disruption in behaviouralpatterns such as reproduction, fat storage (Rawson, 1963; Lack, 1965), and foragingpattern (Lebbin et al., 2007).

7b.6.3.44 Although research on impact of artificial lighting on herpetofauna is very scarce, a recentstudy suggested that some species may react differently to lighting at various stages inlife; moreover, species which is better adapted to the altered lighting intensity andduration may receive beneficial effect and become more dominant in the community(Perry et al., 2008).

7b.6.3.45 Although fauna groups, including White-bellied Sea Eagle, have already been exposed toartificial lighting from the existing settlement, and that the IWMF is not directly connectedto Shek Kwu Chau; however, the coastal shrubland habitat near the IWMF was lessdisturbed at present due to the difference in elevation from the settlement; hence faunagroups, including the nest of WBSE, within the coastal shrubland may be affected byglare disturbance. Mitigation measures to minimise glare disturbance on ecologicalresources should be recommended.

(xi) Disturbance on the nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle

7b.6.3.46 For the active breeding nest of WBSE at Shek Kwu Chau, the aforementioned ‘Increasein Marine Traffic’, ‘Operation Noise’ and ‘Ecological Light Pollution by Artificial Lighting’impacts may also have adverse impacts on the breeding success of the WBSE pair.

7b.6.3.47 In the worst case, WBSE may abandon the existing nest at Shek Kwu Chau due tooperation disturbances from the IWMF. Although WBSE is a highly mobile species, witha range and territory size from 3.8 km to as far as 18.7 km (AFCD, 2010), and that similarhabitat is available in the vicinity (i.e. the rest of hillside shrubland at Shek Kwu Chau, andother remote islands e.g. Soko Island, Hei Ling Chau); nevertheless, mitigation measuresare still considered necessary to minimise potential impacts on WBSE during operationphase to acceptable level.

(xii) Physical Barrier for Avifauna

7b.6.3.48 The building envelope of the IWMF structure would mainly comprise non-reflective andnon-transparent material, and therefore bird collision would be unlikely. Nevertheless, theIWMF structure may still act as a physical barrier for birds flying near the shore of ShekKwu Chau. The birds may need to fly around or above the structure, resulting inalteration in their usual flying pattern. Such barrier may disrupt the ecological linkagebetween the feeding, breeding and roosting sites.

7b.6.3.49 The height of buildings on the reclaimed land would range from 5-50 m above ground,and the stack height would be 150 m. Bird species recorded along the shore of Shek



Kwu Chau during the survey include White-bellied Sea Eagle, Pacific Reef Egret, andBlack-naped Tern. White-bellied Sea Eagle is reported to have flight height between 14to 136 m above sea level (HKE, 2010; Smales, 2005); Black-naped Tern has flight heightbelow 14 m above sea level near shore (HKE, 2010); and the majority of egrets andherons have flight heights below 14 m (ibid.).

7b.6.3.50 Although the physical existence of the IWMF may disrupt the ecological linkage along theshore, however, as the buildings within the IWMF would be at various heights (5-50 m),birds could still fly through the site. Moreover, while the size of the physical structureabove water surface is considered to be insignificant (15.9 ha) when compared to the restof the open sea; and that similar marine habitats are present around the Project Site; theavifauna which utilises the nearby areas are expected to be able to fly over and aroundthe IWMF. The ecological linkage along the shore of Shek Kwu Chau is therefore notexpected to be significantly affected.

(xiii) Operation Noise Disturbance

7b.6.3.51 While the IWMF would be situated on an artificial island near Shek Kwu Chau, the majorsource of noise generated during operation would be traffic and machines, which mayresult in the avoidance of the area by avifauna. Considering that the facilities would belocated away from the main island of Shek Kwu Chau, and that the predicted noise levelduring daytime, evening time and night time would meet the noise criterion (for detailsplease refer to Section 4b), potential operation noise impact on avifauna, as well as andother terrestrial fauna species is therefore considered to be minimal.

(xiv) Air and Dust Emission

7b.6.3.52 The air and dust emission during the operation of the IWMF may have adverse impact onthe terrestrial ecology and avifauna of Shek Kwu Chau. The major sources of air qualityimpacts on ecological resources would be the air emission from the stacks of incinerationprocess, and the dust released from the waste reception halls.

7b.6.3.53 Air pollution control and stack monitoring system would be incorporated during theoperation of the IWMF, in order to ensure that the emissions from the IWMF stacks wouldmeet the stringent target emission limits equivalent to those stipulated in Hong Kong andthe European Commission for waste incineration. Besides, all the other potential airquality impacts would be mitigated through good operation practise and mitigationmeasures, as presented in Section 3b.8.

7b.6.3.54 Moreover, as the IWMF would be located at the prevailing downwind direction of theterrestrial portion of the Study Area at Shek Kwu Chau, indirect impact on terrestrialecology and avifauna due to air and dust emission is expected to be acceptable. Moredetailed assessment on potential impact from air and dust emission on terrestrial habitatof Shek Kwu Chau is presented in the Air Quality Impact Assessment (Section 3b).

(xv) Heat and Fume Exhaust

7b.6.3.55 The proposed stack at the IWMF would be approximately 150 m in height, which isconsidered to allow effective dispersion of heat and fume, hence minimizing disturbanceon the nearby ecological resources at lower height.

7b.6.3.56 Nevertheless, the high temperature of the fume exhausted from the stack may cause theavoidance of the area in the vicinity of the stack exhaust by avifauna, which otherwiseutilises the space above the IWMF. Considering that immediate dispersion of heat andcooling down of fume is expected to occur at the exhaust, due to the openness of thesurrounding environment, the avoidance of area by avifauna is expected to be small scaleand acceptable.



(xvi) Introduction of Pest during Transportation of Waste

7b.6.3.57 During operation, the IWMF would receive wastes transported from other areas in HongKong. Pest may be introduced to the island and may result in negative impacts on floraand fauna at Shek Kwu Chau. The Project Site may encourage the growth of pests if thewaste storage area is not well maintained and cleaned regularly. Disposal of refuse atsites other than approved waste transfer or disposal facilities can also result in similarimpacts.

(xvii) Chemical Spillages arising from Vehicle / Vessel Accident

7b.6.3.58 Accidental spillages of chemicals from vehicles and vessels may contaminate the groundsurface and marine environment. The contaminated ground surface particles may getwashed away via site drainage, and would eventually enter into the marine environment,causing degradation in water quality and subsequently adverse impact on the associatedfauna in the marine environment, i.e. intertidal communities, marine mammals and corals.Species that are intolerant to the change in water quality may result in decrease insurvival rate, and eventually change in species composition of the affected habitats,favouring species that have higher tolerance level. Considering the potentialconsequences on marine habitats, accidental spillage of chemicals is thereforeconsidered to have low to moderate impacts. Adoption of good site practices would berequired to mitigate potential adverse impact to acceptable levels.

Cheung Sha

7b.6.3.59 No indirect impact is expected during operation phase.

7b.6.4 Overall Impact

7b.6.4.1 Potential ecological impacts on habitats arising from the proposed Project are evaluatedaccording to Table 1 of Annex 8 of the EIAO-TM, and are summarized below.

Shek Kwu Chau

Table 7b.47 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Shrubland

Evaluation criteria ShrublandHabitat quality Moderate. Habitat is secondary in nature and is dominated by

native species.Species 3 avifauna species of conservation interest were recorded: White-

bellied Sea Eagle, Emerald Dove, and White-throated Kingfisher.While Black Kite and Pacific Swift were recorded at flight.

1 uncommon butterfly species of conservation interest wasrecorded: Small Grass Yellow.

Japanese Pipstrelle of conservation interest was recorded at flight.

An active nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle was previously recordedat coastal shrubland outside the study area, 300 m away from thenearest breakwater construction works, and 550 m from theproposed reclaimed land.

Bogadek’s burrowing lizard was previously recorded at Shek KwuChau.

Size/abundance This habitat would not be directly affected.



Evaluation criteria ShrublandDuration Construction phase

Indirect disturbance impact on wildlife resulting from constructionactivities would be temporary.

Operation PhaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from increased marine traffic,noise, human disturbance, and artificial lighting would bepermanent.

Reversibility Construction phaseIndirect disturbance impact on wildlife resulting from constructionactivities would be reversible.

Operation PhaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from increased marine traffic,noise, human disturbance, and artificial lighting would beirreversible.

Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. No direct impact is anticipated. The magnitude of indirectimpact is insignificant for majority of shrubland, but moderate forcoastal shrubland.

Operation PhaseLow. No direct impact is anticipated. The magnitude of indirectimpact is insignificant for majority of shrubland, but moderate forcoastal shrubland.

Overall impactconclusion

Low

Table 7b.48 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Plantation

Evaluation criteria PlantationHabitat quality Low. Man-made habitat, dominated by exotic species.Species 1 reptile species of conservation interest was recorded: Tree

Gecko (Hemiphyllodactylus sp.)Size/abundance This habitat would not be directly affected.Duration Construction phase


Operation PhaseIndirect impact on wildlife is not expected.



Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. No direct impact is anticipated. The magnitude of indirectimpact is insignificant.

Operation PhaseLow. No significant direct and indirect impact is anticipated.


Very low



Table 7b.49 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Developed Area

Evaluation criteria Developed AreaHabitat quality Low. Man-made habitatSpecies 1 avifauna species of conservation interest was recorded:

Japanese Paradise Flycatcher, with Pacific Swift recorded at flight.Size/abundance The habitat would not be directly affected.Duration Construction phase





Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. No direct impact is anticipated. The magnitude of the indirectimpact is insignificant.



Very low

Table 7b.50 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Pond

Evaluation criteria PondHabitat quality Low to moderate. Man-made habitat used as a reservoirSpecies 1 avifauna species of conservation interest was recorded: White-

throated Kingfisher

1 uncommon damselfly species: Eastern Lilysquatter

Japanese Pipistrelle of conservation interest was recorded at flight.

In previous study, 1 additional uncommon damselfly species ofconservation interest was recorded: Dusky Lilysquatter

Size/abundance The habitat would not be directly affected.Duration Construction phase

Indirect impact on wildlife is not expected.


Reversibility Construction phaseIndirect impact on wildlife is not expected.




Evaluation criteria PondMagnitude Construction Phase

Low. No significant direct and indirect impact is anticipated.



Very low

Table 7b.51 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Watercourse

Evaluation criteria WatercourseHabitat quality Low to moderate. Both watercourses (W1 and W2) are natural.Species No rare species or species of conservation interest was recorded.Size/abundance The habitat would not be directly affected.Duration Construction phase

No significant direct and indirect impact is anticipated.


Reversibility Construction phaseNo significant direct and indirect impact is anticipated.





Very low

Table 7b.52 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Rocky Shore

Evaluation criteria Rocky ShoreHabitat quality Low to moderate. Natural rocky shore.Species 1 avifauna species of conservation interest was recorded: Pacific

Reef EgretSize/abundance The habitat would not be directly affected.Duration Construction phase

Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from marine habitat degradationdue to increased SS would be temporary.

Operation PhaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from human disturbance andartificial lighting would be permanent.

Reversibility Construction phaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality deteriorationdue to increase in SS would be reversible.

Operation PhaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from human disturbance andartificial lighting would be irreversible.



Evaluation criteria Rocky ShoreMagnitude Construction Phase

Low. No direct impact is anticipated. The magnitude of the indirectimpact is considered to be minor.

Operation PhaseLow. No direct impact is anticipated. The magnitude of the indirectimpact is insignificant.


Low

Table 7b.53 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Subtidal Hard and SoftBottom Habitats

Evaluation criteria Subtidal Hard and Soft Bottom HabitatHabitat quality Low to moderate for subtidal hard bottom habitat: with recorded

coral colonies close to shore.Low to moderate for subtidal soft bottom habitat: typical naturalsubstratum in Southern WCZ.

Species For subtidal hard bottom habitat, 8 protected hard coral specieswere recorded, including:1 uncommon species: Coscinaraea n sp.; 7 common species:Psammocora superficialis, Oulastrea crispata, Gonioporastutchburyi, Turbinaria peltata, Tubastrea sp., Tubastrea diaphana,and Dendrophyllia sp.

For subtidal soft bottom habitat, no rare species or species ofconservation interest was recorded.

Size/abundance Construction phaseA total of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat, and 0.2 ha ofsubtidal hard bottom habitat would be lost.

At subtidal hard bottom habitat:One hard coral species (and 7 octocoral species) of <1% coveragewould be directly affected in the construction phase.8 hard coral species (and 7 octocoral species) of <1% coveragewould be indirectly affected due to the water quality deterioration.

Operation PhaseA total of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat, and 0.2 ha ofsubtidal hard bottom habitat would be permanently lost.Indirect impacts due to change in flow regime would be acceptable.Potential alteration in water quality and sedimentation patternwould satisfy the criteria for local coral protection. Continuouswater flow into and out of at the embayment and channel would bemaintained, water exchange and diffusion of gas and nutrient ofthe existing corals with the surrounding waters would still beallowed.



Evaluation criteria Subtidal Hard and Soft Bottom HabitatDuration Construction phase

Loss of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat, and 0.2 ha ofsubtidal hard bottom habitat would become permanent uponcompletion of Project.Indirect impact on marine fauna due to marine works would betemporary and last for approximately 3 years (2013 to 2015).

Operation PhaseLoss of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat, and 0.2 ha ofsubtidal hard bottom habitat would be permanent.Indirect impacts due to change in flow regime, water quality andsedimentation pattern would be permanent.

Reversibility Construction phaseLoss of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat, and 0.2 ha ofsubtidal hard bottom habitat, and habitat disturbance would beirreversible.Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality deteriorationdue to increase in SS would be reversible.

Operation PhasePermanent loss of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat, and 0.2ha of subtidal hard bottom habitat would be irreversible.Indirect impacts due to change in flow regime, water quality andsedimentation pattern would be irreversible.

Magnitude Construction PhaseLow to moderate for loss of 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottom habitat;and low for loss of 0.2 ha of subtidal hard bottom habitat.Translocation of all directly affected corals should berecommended.Low to moderate on wildlife resulting from water qualitydeterioration due to increase in SS.

Operation PhaseLow to moderate for permanent loss 17.2 ha of subtidal soft bottomhabitat, and low for permanent loss of 0.2 ha of subtidal hardbottom habitat.Low to moderate on wildlife resulting from water qualitydeterioration.Low for change in flow regime. Alteration in water quality andsedimentation pattern would be insignificant.


Low to Moderate



Table 7b.54 Overall Impact Evaluation at Shek Kwu Chau: Coastal / Marine Waters

Evaluation criteria Coastal / Marine WatersHabitat quality HighSpecies 1 marine mammal species of conservation interest was recorded in

the recent study: Finless Porpoise.

In previous study, 1 marine mammal species of conservationinterest, Chinese White Dolphin, was rarely recorded around thewaters of Shek Kwu Chau.

Horseshoe crab, a species of conservation interest, was previouslyrecorded 600 m away from the northwest of Shek Kwu Chau.

Fish spawning and nursery ground was previously identified insouthern waters, covering the Project Site.

Size/abundance Construction phaseA total of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fish spawning andnursery grounds would be lost.About 31 ha of marine mammal habitat would be lost.

Operation PhaseA total of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fish spawning andnursery grounds would be permanently lost.About 31 ha of marine mammal habitat would be permanently lost.

Duration Construction phaseLoss of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fish spawning andnursery ground would become permanent upon completion ofProject.Loss of 31 ha of marine mammal habitat would become permanentupon completion of Project.Indirect impact resulting from water quality deterioration due toincrease in SS and increase in vessel traffic would be temporaryand last for approximately 6 years (2013-2018).

Operation PhaseA total of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fish spawning andnursery ground would be permanently lost.A total of 31 ha of marine mammal habitat would be permanentlylost.



Evaluation criteria Coastal / Marine WatersReversibility Construction phase

Loss of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fish spawning andnursery grounds would be irreversible.Loss of 31 ha of marine mammal habitat would be irreversible.Indirect impact resulting from water quality deterioration due toincrease in SS and increase in vessel traffic would be reversible,and would last for approximately 6 years (2013-2018).Indirect impact resulting from unmitigated underwater acousticdisturbance would be reversible.

Operation PhasePermanent loss of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fishspawning and nursery grounds would be irreversible.Permanent loss of 31 ha of marine mammal habitat would beirreversible.Indirect impact on marine mammal habitat resulting from increasein marine traffic during operation would be irreversible.

Magnitude Construction PhaseLow for loss of 15.9 ha of coastal / marine waters and fishspawning and nursery grounds.High for loss of 31 ha of marine mammal habitat.Low to moderate for unmitigated water quality deterioration.Low to moderate for unmitigated underwater acoustic disturbanceon marine mammals.

Operation PhaseLow to moderate for permanent loss of 15.9 ha of coastal / marinewaters and fish spawning and nursery grounds.High for permanent loss of 31 ha of marine mammal habitat.Low to moderate for increase in marine traffic leading to acousticdisturbance and vessel collision on marine mammals.


High

Cheung Sha

Table 7b.55 Overall Impact Evaluation at Cheung Sha: Shrubland

Evaluation criteria ShrublandHabitat quality Moderate. Habitat is secondary in nature and is connected to the

rest of the extensive shrubland at the northwest of the study area.Species 1 amphibian species of conservation interest was recorded: Lesser

Spiny Frog, outside the works area

1 protected plant species: Aquilaria sinensis recorded outside theworks area

In previous study, 2 amphibian species of conservation interestwas recorded: Romer’s Tree Frog and Short-legged Toad, outsidethe works area



Operation PhaseOperation phase impact on wildlife is not expected.



Evaluation criteria ShrublandReversibility Construction phase

Indirect disturbance impact on wildlife resulting from constructionactivities would be reversible.


Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. The magnitude of indirect impact is insignificant.



Low

Table 7b.56 Overall Impact Evaluation at Cheung Sha: Developed Area

Evaluation criteria Developed AreaHabitat quality Low. Man-made habitatSpecies 1 reptile species of conservation interest was recorded: Chinese

Cobra

A potential nest of Black KiteSize/abundance The habitat would not be directly affected.Duration Construction phase








Very low



Table 7b.57 Overall Impact Evaluation at Cheung Sha: Watercourse

Evaluation criteria WatercourseHabitat quality Moderate. Both watercourses (W1 and W2) are natural.Species W1: 2 avifauna species of conservation interest were recorded:

Little Egret and White-throated Kingfisher.W2: 1 rare plant species was recorded, Ceratopteris thalictroides.

In previous study: 1 reptile species of conservation interest wasrecorded at W1 - Chinese Cobra; 2 butterfly species ofconservation interest were recorded at W1 – Large Branded Swiftand Common Rose; a damselfly species of conservation interestwas recorded at W1 – Short-winged Shadowdamsel; and 2 fishspecies of conservation interest were recorded at W2 – Stiphodonatropurpureus and Awaous melanocephalus.


Construction phase impact on wildlife is not expected.


Reversibility Construction phaseConstruction phase impact on wildlife is not expected.


Magnitude Construction PhaseConstruction phase impact on wildlife is not expected.



Very low

Table 7b.58 Overall Impact Evaluation at Cheung Sha: Rocky Shore

Evaluation criteria Rocky ShoreHabitat quality Low to moderate. Natural rocky shore.Species 2 avifauna species of conservation interest was recorded: Pacific

Reef Egret and Black Kite, with Little Egret recorded at flight.Size/abundance Construction phase

Less than 20 m2 of rocky shore and its associated intertidalcommunities would be lost.A total of 0.075 ha of backshore vegetation would be lost.

Operation PhaseLess than 20 m2 of rocky shore would be permanently lost.



Evaluation criteria Rocky ShoreDuration Construction phase

Loss of less than 20 m2 of rocky shore and its associated intertidalcommunities would become permanent upon completion ofconstruction.Loss of 0.075 ha of backshore vegetation would be temporary.Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from marine habitat degradationdue to increased SS would be temporary.

Operation PhaseLoss of less than 20 m2 of rocky shore would be permanent.Operation phase impact on wildlife is not expected.

Reversibility Construction phaseLoss of less than 20 m2 of rocky shore and its associated intertidalcommunities would be irreversible.Loss of 0.075 ha of backshore vegetation would be reversible.Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from marine habitat degradationdue to increased SS would be reversible.


Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. The magnitude of the direct and indirect impacts isconsidered to be minor.



Low

Table 7b.59 Overall Impact Evaluation at Cheung Sha: Subtidal Hard and SoftBottom Habitat

Evaluation criteria Subtidal Hard and Soft Bottom HabitatHabitat quality Low.Species No rare species or species of conservation interest was recorded.Size/abundance Construction phase

A total of less than 20 m2 of subtidal hard and soft bottom habitatwould be lost due to trenching works at the shore end of thesubmarine cable at Cheung Sha.Nearby subtidal hard and soft bottom habitat may be indirectlyaffected due to water quality degradation.


Duration Construction phaseLoss of less than 20 m2 of subtidal hard and soft bottom habitatwould be permanent.Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality degradationdue to increase in SS would be temporary.




Evaluation criteria Subtidal Hard and Soft Bottom HabitatReversibility Construction phase

Loss of less than 20 m2 of subtidal hard and soft habitats would beirreversible.Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality deteriorationdue to increase in SS would be reversible.


Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. The magnitude of the direct and indirect impacts isconsidered to be low.

Operation PhaseNo significant direct and indirect impact is expected.


Low

Table 7b.60 Overall Impact Evaluation at Cheung Sha: Coastal / Marine Waters

Evaluation criteria Coastal / Marine WatersHabitat quality LowSpecies No rare species or species of conservation interest was recorded.Size/abundance Construction phase

Indirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality degradationdue to surface runoff and increase in SS may arise.


Duration Construction phaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality degradationdue to surface runoff and increase in SS would be temporary.


Reversibility Construction phaseIndirect impact on wildlife resulting from water quality deteriorationdue to surface runoff and increase in SS would be reversible.


Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. The magnitude of the indirect impacts is considered to below.

Operation PhaseNo significant direct nor indirect impact is expected.


Low



Along the Cable Alignment

Table 7b.61 Overall Impact Evaluation along the Submarine Cable Alignment:Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat

Evaluation criteria Subtidal Soft Bottom HabitatHabitat quality Low to moderate for subtidal soft bottom habitat: typical natural

substratum in Southern WCZ.Species No rare species or species of conservation interest was recorded.Size/abundance Construction phase

Jetting-blowing at soft bottom habitat (3 m wide x 5.8 km long)during cable laying would result in direct loss 17,400 m2 of benthoshabitat, and indirect impact on wildlife resulting from water qualitydegradation due to increase in SS may arise.


Duration Construction phaseDirect and indirect impact on wildlife resulting from habitat loss andwater quality degradation would be temporary.


Reversibility Construction phaseDirect and indirect impact on wildlife resulting from habitat loss andwater quality degradation would be reversible.


Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. The magnitude of the direct and indirect impacts isconsidered to be low.



Low

Table 7b.62 Overall Impact Evaluation along the Cable Alignment: Coastal / MarineWaters

Evaluation criteria Coastal / Marine WatersHabitat quality ModerateSpecies 1 marine mammal species of conservation interest was recorded

under this study: Finless Porpoise

In previous study, 1 marine mammal species of conservationinterest, Chinese White Dolphin, was rarely recorded around thewaters of Shek Kwu Chau.

Size/abundance Construction phaseJetting-blowing at sea bed during cable laying would result inindirect impact on wildlife due to water quality degradation.




Evaluation criteria Coastal / Marine WatersDuration Construction phase

Indirect impact on wildlife due to water quality degradation wouldbe temporary.


Reversibility Construction phaseIndirect impact on wildlife due to water quality degradation wouldbe reversible.


Magnitude Construction PhaseLow. The magnitude indirect impact is considered to be low.



Low

7b.6.4.2 Major impacts on species of conservation importance recorded within the study area havebeen described. A summary of the potential impacts from construction and operationphases on all species of conservation importance recorded within the study area ispresented in Table 7b.63 for Shek Kwu Chau, and Table 7b.64 for Cheung Sha andalong the submarine cable alignment.



Table 7b.63 Overall Impacts on Species of Conservation Interest at Shek Kwu Chau

Species of ConservationInterest

Construction phase impacts Operation phase impacts

Common name/scientific name

Description Evaluation Description Evaluation

FAUNAMarine MammalFinless PorpoiseNeophocaenaphocaenoides

The location of the IWMF at an artificial island nearSKC is frequently utilised by Finless Porpoisebetween December and May. The potential loss (31ha) and disturbance of important habitat due toreclamation and breakwater construction wouldrestrict the accessibility of Finless Porpoise, cause theavoidance of habitat, and limit the foraging range andcommunication of Finless Porpoise. Althoughporpoises are expected to be able to utilise thesurrounding marine habitats of the similar quality,where high sighting frequency had also beenfrequently noted; nevertheless, due to the highutilization rate during the current study and the longterm marine mammal monitoring survey by the AFCD,the potential impact on Finless Porpoise due to theloss of 31 ha of habitat is still considered to be high.As the loss of habitat would be carried forward tooperation phase, such impact should be mitigated bycompensatory measure.

Increase in traffic of marine working vessels mayresult in collision of Finless Porpoise and vessel,causing injury and mortality of Finless Porpoise. Thepresence of vessels and underwater noise may alsocause behavioural disturbance, affecting FinlessPorpoise’s resurfacing and diving pattern.

Acoustic disturbance from vessels and constructionworks (e.g. piling) would affect their echolocation andcommunication ability, as well as increasing thebackground noise in their habitat.

Water quality deterioration resulting from constructionworks (i.e. reclamation, dredging, filling, transportation

High The permanent occupation of the IWMF at theimportant habitat of Finless Porpoise would resultin permanent loss of important habitat for FinlessPorpoise. The potential loss (31 ha) anddisturbance of important habitat would bepermanent and irreversible, which is consideredto have high impact on Finless Porpoise.

Frequent vessel traffic may result in collision ofFinless Porpoise and vessel, causing injury andmortality of Finless Porpoise. The presence ofvessels and underwater engine noise may alsocause behavioural disturbance, affecting FinlessPorpoise’s resurfacing and diving pattern.

Acoustic disturbance from vessels would affectFinless Porpoise’s echolocation andcommunication ability, as well as increasing thebackground noise in their habitat.

The narrow coastal channel between the existingsouthwest coast of Shek Kwu Chau and theproposed reclaimed land may increase the risk oftrapping of Finless Porpoise. Considering thedimension of channel (10-40 m in width, 400 m inlength), Finless Porpoise can go in and out. Butthe physical existing of the IWMF and breakwaterstructure, and the regular marine traffic near theIWMF is expected to cause the avoidance ofhabitat by Finless Porpoise. Trapping of FinlessPorpoise within the channel behind the IWMF istherefore considered unlikely.

The discharge of concentrated saline water at

High







and disposal of dredged sediment) would result inincrease in suspended solid, and may lead todecrease in abundance of prey of Finless Porpoise.

Finless Porpoise may enter the works area during thesetting up of silt curtains around works area.

ambient temperature at the proposed seawalloutfall may affect the distribution of prey forFinless Porpoise in the immediate waters. As thedischarge would soon blend in with thesurrounding waters due to mixing, prey items ofmarine mammals can tolerate a certain range ofsalinity, and the discharge would contain no anti-fouling agents; impact on Finless Porpoise shouldbe minimal.

Chemical spillages arised from vehicle and vesselaccidents may affect the habitat quality.

* Chinese White DolphinSousa chinensis

Rare sightings of Chinese White Dolphin have beenmade in the South Lantau waters. Shek Kwu Chau isnot considered to be an important habitat for ChineseWhite Dolphin.

Potential impacts on Chinese White Dolphin duringconstruction are mostly the same as FinlessPorpoise’s, as described above, including potentialcollision with marine vessels, underwater acousticdisturbance, alteration in behavioural pattern,reduction in prey items, and entrapment within worksarea.

Low Potential impacts on Chinese White Dolphinduring operation are mostly the same as FinlessPorpoise’s, as described above (exceptpermanent loss of important habitat), includingpotential collision with marine vessels, underwateracoustic disturbance, alteration in behaviouralpattern, entrapment within the channel betweenthe Shek Kwu Chau coast and the IWMF,discharge of concentrated saline water, andchemical spillages.

Considering the area sightings of Chinese WhiteDolphin, potential impacts are considered to below.

Low







CoralsHard Corals: Although the siting of the IWMF has been purposefully

placed away from the shore of Shek Kwu Chau as ameasure to minimise coral loss, however, unavoidableloss of coral communities within the works area wouldstill be resulted.

Direct loss of habitat for coral colonization would bepermanent and irreversible.

Disturbance on seabed during piling, dredging andfilling works may result in increase in suspendedsolids, causing increase in SS level and sedimentationon the coral surface, inhibiting photosynthesis ofsymbiotic algae associated with corals, as well asincreasing their energy expenditure on sedimentremoval, which may result in bleaching and mortality.

Moderate The proposed breakwaters may reduce the waterflow into the embayment area and channel behindthe IWMF, threatening the health of coralcommunities along the coast and within thechannel. As it is expected that exchange ofwaters between the embayment / channel and thesurrounding waters would continue, diffusion ofgas and nutrient between corals and thesurrounding waters would be allowed.

The discharge of concentrated saline water atambient temperature at the proposed seawalloutfall may affect the corals along the coast ofShek Kwu Chau. As it is quantified that theinfluence zone is about 72 m from the point ofdischarge, and the nearest coral community islocated over 200 m away, impact on corals shouldbe minimal.

LowPsammocora superficialisOulastrea crispataGoniopora stutchburyiTurbinaria peltataCoscinaraea n sp.Tubastrea sp.Tubastrea diaphanaDendrophyllia sp.Octocorals:Dendronephthya sp.Menella sp.Euplexaura sp.Echinomuricea sp.Echinogorgia sp. AEchinogorgia sp. BParaplexaura sp.

Horseshoe Crab* Tachypleus tridentatus An individual of Tachypleus tridentatus was previously

recorded at the northwestern waters offshore fromShek Kwu Chau, approximately 600 m away from theProject Site.

The distance between the proposed works area andthe previously identified recorded horseshoe crablocation is over 600m, and suitable habitat for juvenilehorseshoe crabs was not found within or in the vicinityof the Project Site; with the adoption of water qualitymitigation measures, no unacceptable impact shouldarise.

Low No impact No impact







AvifaunaPacific Reef EgretEgretta sacra

Two individuals were recorded at rocky shore withinthe study area. Works may result in deterioration inquality of foraging ground due to potential adverseimpact on water quality.

The construction noise and presence of vessels maycause avoidance of habitat. Nevertheless, PacificReef Egret could utilise the nearby habitat of similarquality (rocky shore), which is available around of thewhole island.

Artificial lighting may be provided during constructionphase. The change in duration and intensity oflighting in the vicinity may disorientate birds and causedisruption in behavioural and foraging patterns.Avifauna within the coastal shrubland may beaffected.

Low tomoderate

The level of human disturbance, including marinetraffic and noise, would increase due to operationof the proposed Project.

Artificial lighting would be provided duringoperation phase. The change in duration andintensity of lighting in the vicinity may disorientatebirds and cause disruption in behavioural andforaging patterns. Avifauna within the coastalshrubland may be affected.

The air and dust emitted during operation mayaffect Pacific Reef Egret. Emissions from theIWMF stacks would be designed to ensure fullcompliance with relevant legislation.

The heat and fume exhausted from the stack atthe IWMF may cause the avoidance of the area inthe vicinity of the stack by Pacific Reef Egret. Asimmediate dispersion and cooling down of fume isexpected to occur at the exhaust, the avoidanceof area by avifauna is expected to be small scaleand acceptable.

Low tomoderate

White-bellied Sea EagleHaliaeetus leucogaster

One individual was recorded at shrubland habitat verynear to rocky shore within the study area. Works mayresult in deterioration in quality of habitat and foragingground due to degradation in water quality.

Construction noise and increased marine traffic maycause avoidance of habitat. WBSE can utilise thenearby habitat of similar quality (rocky shore), which isavailable around of the whole island.

Artificial lighting may be provided during constructionphase. The change in duration and intensity of

Low tomoderate

The level of human disturbance, including marinetraffic and noise, would increase due to operationof the proposed Project.

Artificial lighting would be provided at the IWMFduring operation phase. The change in durationand intensity of lighting in the vicinity maydisorientate birds and cause disruption inbehavioural and foraging patterns. Avifaunawithin the coastal shrubland may be affected.

The air and dust emitted during operation may

Low tomoderate







lighting in the vicinity may disorientate birds, includingWBSE which has a nest 300 m away from the nearestworks (breakwater), and cause disruption inbehavioural and foraging patterns. Avifauna within thecoastal shrubland may be affected.

For the active breeding nest of WBSE located 300mand 550m away from the proposed breakwater andreclamation, potential impacts including degradation inhabitat and foraging ground quality, increase in marinetraffic, noise, and glare disturbance, may affect thebreeding success of the breeding pair.

The WBSE nest at Tai Ngam Hau had demonstratedtolerance to a certain level of human disturbance, andcan achieve breeding success under humandisturbance. As WBSE is a highly mobile species,and suitable habitats are available in the vicinity,potential impact on the nesting WBSE is considered tobe acceptable with the implementation of mitigationmeasures.

affect WBSE. With the implementation of airpollution control to ensure full compliance withrelevant legislation, potential impact from air anddust emission is minimized.

The heat and fume exhausted from the stack atthe IWMF may cause the avoidance of the area inthe vicinity of the stack by avifauna. Asimmediate dispersion and cooling down of fume isexpected to occur at the exhaust, the avoidanceof area by avifauna is expected to be small scaleand acceptable.

For the active breeding nest of WBSE, potentialoperation impacts including increase in marinetraffic, operation noise, and glare disturbance,may affect the breeding success of the WBSEpair.

In the worst case, WBSE may abandon theexisting nest at Shek Kwu Chau. As WBSE is ahighly mobile species; with the availability ofsimilar habitat in the vicinity, as well as adoptionthe recommended measures, potential impacts onbreeding WBSE during operation phase isconsidered to be acceptable.

Emerald DoveChalcophaps indica

No impact No impact No impact No impact

White-throated KingfisherHalcyon smyrnensis


Black KiteMilvus migrans


Pacific SwiftApus pacificus


Japanese ParadiseFlycatcher








Terpsiphone atrocaudata* Eurasian Eagle OwlBubo bubo


ButterflySmall Grass YellowEurema brigitta rubella


DamselflyEastern LilysquatterCercion melanotum


* Dusky LilysquatterCercion calamorum dyeri


ReptileTree GeckoHemiphyllodactylus sp.


* Bogadek’s BurrowingLizardDibamus bogadeki


MammalJapanese PipistrellePipistrellus abramus








Marine FishFish spawning and nurseryarea

The footprint of works would overlap with thepreviously identified fish spawning and nurseryground, a direct loss of 15.9 ha of fish spawning andnursery ground would be resulted. Nevertheless, asthe loss would only account for an insignificantamount of the total spawning and nursery ground inthe southern waters, the predicted loss of 15.9 ha isconsidered to be insignificant.

Potential degradation in habitat quality due to increasein SS level may affect the survival of fish eggs, larvaeand juveniles.

Low tomoderate

The footprint of IWMF would result in thepermanent loss of 15.9 ha of fish spawning andnursery ground. Nevertheless, as the loss wouldonly account for an insignificant amount of thetotal spawning and nursery ground in thesouthern waters, the permanent loss of 15.9 ha offish spawning and nursery ground is consideredto be insignificant.

Impingement and entrainment of fish eggs andjuvenile fishes through the intake point may arise.

Since a previous study revealed that the densitiesfor fish larvae and eggs in southern waters ofHong Kong were generally low; and there was noobservable difference in fish larvae and eggdensities between the identified spawning andnursery grounds at southern waters of HongKong, and that at Western Lantau, which was notidentified to be important spawning and nurserygrounds, it is therefore considered that impacts onlocal fisheries resources due to impingement andentrainment is acceptable.

Low

Note: * = Previously recorded at Shek Kwu Chau



Table 7b.64 Overall Impacts on Species of Conservation Interest at Cheung Sha and Along the Submarine Cable Alignment





FLORAAquilaria sinensis These species fall outside the works areas, no impact is

predicted.No impact No impact No impact

Ceratopteris thalictroides

FAUNAMarine MammalFinless PorpoiseNeophocaenaphocaenoides

The proposed alignment for submarine cable laying isfrequently utilised by Finless Porpoise between Decemberand May. The potential disturbance due to laying ofsubmarine cable would be temporary.

Increase in traffic of marine working vessels may result incollision of Finless Porpoise and vessel, causing injury andmortality of Finless Porpoise. The presence of vessels andunderwater noise may also cause behavioural disturbance,affecting Finless Porpoise’s resurfacing and diving pattern.

Acoustic disturbance from vessels and construction workswould affect their echolocation and communication ability,as well as increasing the background noise in their habitat.

Degradation of habitat resulting from construction workswould result in increase in suspended solids, and may leadto decrease in abundance of prey of Finless Porpoise.

Moderate No impact No impact







* Chinese White DolphinSousa chinensis

Rare sightings of Chinese White Dolphin have been madein the South Lantau waters. South Lantau waters are notconsidered to be an important habitat for Chinese WhiteDolphin.

Potential impacts on Chinese White Dolphin duringconstruction are mostly the same as Finless Porpoise’s, asdescribed above, including potential collision with marinevessels, underwater acoustic disturbance, alteration inbehavioural pattern, and reduction in prey items due todegradation in water quality.


AvifaunaBlack KiteMilvus migrans

One individual was recorded resting on an isolated rock offthe shore of Cheung Sha, and was foraging at the nearbywaters 500 m away from the proposed landing portal.

Works may result in deterioration in quality of foragingground due to potential adverse impact on water quality.Construction noise and presence of vessels may causeavoidance of rocky shore habitat.

Black Kite could utilise the nearby habitat of similar quality(rocky shore), which is available in the vicinity.

The potential nest of Black Kite located inland withindeveloped habitat at a metal tower, may be disturbed byconstruction noise. Considering the great distancebetween the nest (in-land) and the coastal works (300 m),and difference in elevation between the two sites, nosignificant impact on Black Kite’s nest is expected.

Low No impact. No impact

Pacific Reef EgretEgretta sacra

Two individuals were recorded at rocky shore within thestudy area. Works may result in deterioration in quality offoraging ground due to potential adverse impact on waterquality.








The construction noise and presence of vessels may causeavoidance of rocky shore habitat. To minimize the noiseimpact, quieter construction methods and plants would beused.

Pacific Reef Egret could utilise the nearby habitat of similarquality (rocky shore), which is available around of the wholeisland.

Little EgretEgretta garzetta

An individual was recorded within a watercourse (W1). Noimpact should arise due to the great distance from worksand the blockage from landscape.

No impact No impact No impact

White-throated KingfisherHalcyon smyrnensis


Butterfly* Large Branded SwiftPelopidas subochraceus


* Common RosePachliopta aristolochiae


Damselfly* Short-wingedShadowdamselDrepanostictahongkongensis


ReptileChinese CobraNaja atra


AmphibianLesser Spiny FrogPaa exilispinosa


Short-legged ToadXenophrys brachykolos


* Romer’s Tree FrogPhilautus romeri








Fish* Philippine Neon GobyStiphodon atropurpureus


* Black-headed Thick-lipped GobyAwaous melanocephalus


Note:*Previously recorded under another study within the study area of this Project



7b.7 Cumulative Impacts

7b.7.1.1 Two projects may be carried out concurrently with the IWMF at an artificial island nearSKC:

ESB-209/2009 – Outlying Islands Sewerage Stage 2 - South Lantau Sewerage Works(2013 – 2017)

Marine works

7b.7.1.2 The concurrent project would involve the construction of a Sewage Treatment Works(STW) at San Shek Wan. Although the STW building would be located outside the studyarea of the IWMF at Cheung Sha, nevertheless, its associated submarine outfall, which isapproximately 800 m in length and 300 mm in diameter, would extend from the shore ofSan Shek Wan into the Southern Water Control Zone. The proposed submarine outfall ofthe concurrent project would require dredging works.

7b.7.1.3 While the tentative construction schedule for the IWMF at an artificial island near SKC is2013 to 2018, there may be an overlapping period for the two projects. As the waterquality impacts generated from the proposed reclamation and submarine cableinstallation works are predicted to be localized in the Water Quality Impact Assessmentsection, no significant cumulative impact on marine ecology due to water quality would beanticipated.

ESB-187/2008 – Improvement of Fresh Water Supply to Cheung Chau (2010 – 2013)

Marine works

7b.7.1.4 This concurrent project would construct a submarine water main across AdamastaChannel, between Northern Channel of Cheung Chau and Chi Man Wan Peninsula, toreplace the existing submarine water main. Works of the concurrent project that wouldoverlap with the construction phase of the IWMF include the laying of submarine cable(1400 m in length and 500 mm in diameter) across Adamasta Channel within theSouthern Water Control Zone.

7b.7.1.5 According to the tentative schedule of the concurrent project, which is 2010 to 2013, thesubmarine water main laying works may overlap with the construction phase of the IWMF(2013 to 2018). Considering that the overlapping time would be short, and that the waterquality impacts generated from the IWMF marine works are predicted to be localized inthe Water Quality Impact Assessment section, no significant cumulative impact onmarine ecology due to water quality would be anticipated.

7b.7.1.6 No cumulative impact on terrestrial ecology is expected.

7b.8 Mitigation of Adverse Environmental Impacts

7b.8.1 Introduction

7b.8.1.1 According to EIAO-TM Annex 16 guidelines, mitigation measures are discussed in thissection to avoid and minimize identified ecological impacts.



7b.8.2 Avoidance

Shek Kwu Chau

Intertidal habitat

7b.8.2.1 To avoid direct contact with the intertidal natural rocky shore of Shek Kwu Chau, thelayout of Project has avoided direct encroachment of the existing natural rocky shorehabitat, and subsequently avoiding the direct loss of intertidal communities. Some birdspecies of conservation interest such as Pacific Reef Egret and White-bellied Sea Eaglehave also been recorded within and in the vicinity (within coastal shrubland) of theintertidal habitat.

Coastal Subtidal habitat

7b.8.2.2 According to the results of the recent dive surveys, extensive coral colonies wererecorded on the non-movable bedrock and large boulders in the coastal hard bottomhabitat at Shek Kwu Chau. To avoid and minimise the extensive direct impact on thecoral colonies, the movable boulders with attached coral colonies within areas to bedirectly affected should be translocated to avoid direct loss.

Zero Discharge Scheme

7b.8.2.3 Considering the high ecological value of the marine habitats surrounding Shek Kwu Chau,the design scheme of the Project should avoid the addition of pollution loading into themarine environment. A zero discharge scheme should be adopted during the operation ofthe Project. An on-site wastewater treatment plant would be provided to treat thewastewater generated from the IWMF (mainly from human). The treated effluent shouldbe re-used in the Incineration Plant and Mechanical Treatment Plant, or for onsitelandscape. No significant adverse impact on the marine environment due to operationdischarge is therefore expected.

Cheung Sha

Avoidance of plant species of conservation importance

7b.8.2.4 To avoid direct damage of the recorded individual of protected plant species, Aquilariasinensis, at the coastal shrubland habitat at Cheung Sha, the proposed works for landingportal should avoid direct encroachment of, and provide fencing for the plant individualprior to works, in order to avoid any damage due to the Project. The siting of constructionequipment and assess road (if any) should be located away from the plant species ofconservation interest. Potential indirect disturbance, i.e. dust impact to shrubland and theassociated flora species, should be minimised by mitigation measures as stated under theAir Quality section (Section 3b).

7b.8.3 Minimisation

Measures to Minimise Water Quality Impact

Careful phasing of construction works

7b.8.3.1 Considering the ecological importance of the proposed Project Site to Finless Porpoise,corals and fisheries, minimisation of adverse impacts from SS elevation on marine faunawould be achieved by phasing of constructions works (Figure 2.8 under Section 2 –Project Description).

7b.8.3.2 In Phase 1, cofferdam would be constructed to enclose the reclamation area prior to thecommencement of filling activities to minimize potential dispersion of sediment plume



during filling. In addition, the section of breakwater preventing the wave from striking thereclamation area directly from the northwest direction would also be constructed.Appropriate measures, such as silt curtain, would be also applied to reduce the potentialimpacts on water quality.

7b.8.3.3 In Phase 2, filling of the reclamation area would take place. Appropriate measures, suchas silt curtain, would be applied to reduce the potential impacts on water quality.

7b.8.3.4 In Phase 3, the remaining breakwater and berth area would be constructed. At the sametime, surcharge loading of the reclaimed area would be in progress. Upon the completionof surcharge loading, construction of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) treatment facilitiesand the associated supporting facilities would commence.

7b.8.3.5 A more detailed construction programme is presented in Table 2.5 under Section 2 –Project Description.

Low impact construction method

7b.8.3.6 In order to minimise the amount of dredging and filling works which may result indegradation in water quality, the originally proposed construction method for breakwaterfor the IWMF and the structure surrounding the perimeter of reclamation area has beenrevised to the current method.

7b.8.3.7 The currently proposed breakwater, and the structure surrounding the perimeter ofreclamation area would be in the form circular cells connected together. Each circular cellwould be formed by interlocking straight-web steel piles, which would then be filled withappropriate fill materials. Detailed on the circular cells are presented in Section 2 –Project Description.

7b.8.3.8 With the revised construction method, the projected dredging volume has significantlyreduced from 79,141 m3 (original construction method) to 26,200 m3 (newly proposedconstruction method).

7b.8.3.9 During the dredging for anti-scouring protection layer, dredging operation would beshielded by frame-type silt curtain around grab to control sediment plume dispersion. Themaximum extent of dredging required for the Project construction is shown in Figure5b.4.

Adoption of silt curtains

7b.8.3.10 In order to minimise the dispersion of suspended solids which may have adverse impactson marine habitats and their associated fauna, e.g. sedimentation on coral surface,reduction in light penetration in water etc., silt curtains should be installed to minimisepotential water quality impacts during:

Sheet piling and filling works for circular cells for cofferdam and breakwaterconstruction – floating type silt curtain around the circular cell (Phase 1 and 3);

Filling for reclamation area – floating type silt curtain closing the opening for marineaccess to the reclamation area (Phase 2);

Anti-scouring dredging – frame-type silt curtain around grab (upon completion ofPhase 3); and

Maintenance dredging (if required during operation phase) - frame-type silt curtainaround grab.



7b.8.3.11 Regular inspection of silt curtains should be implemented, in order to maintain theireffectiveness and intactness. Details of installation of silt curtains are presented inAppendix 5b.5.

Limitation on dredging rate

7b.8.3.12 In order to maintain the maximum SS elevation under 2.5 mg/L, which is below theallowed margin of 30% increase of existing ambient SS level in WQO, and to meet theassessment criteria for marine ecological resources that are sensitive to changes in waterquality, a dredging rate of no greater than 380 m3/day, with no more than 15 grabs perhour using grab size of approximately 2 m3 should be implemented.

Good site practice for water quality control

7b.8.3.13 Standard good site practice as proposed in the Water Quality Impact Assessment(Section 5b.8) should be adopted during the construction and operation stages tominimize impacts to the marine environment. Some of the recommendations are asfollows:

Barges should be loaded carefully to avoid splashing of material;

All barges used for the transport of dredged/waste materials should be fitted with tightbottom seals in order to prevent leakage of material during loading and transporting;

All barges should be filled to a level that would not spill over during loading andtransporting to the disposal site; and

Adequate freeboard at all barges should be maintained to ensure that the decks arenot washed by wave action.

7b.8.3.14 The Project Proponent would also ensure no untreated effluent would be discharged fromthe Project; and that any discharge should contain no pollutants and meet therequirement of Water Quality Objective.

Proper transportation and disposal of dredged materials at designated areas

7b.8.3.15 Good practice for loading of barges and careful handling of dredged sediments should beadopted; and disposal of sediments should be restricted to designated disposal areas, inorder to minimise any unacceptable impacts on the marine habitat and its associatedfauna. More mitigation measures to handle dredged materials are listed in Section 5b.8.

Specific measures to minimise disturbance on Finless Porpoise

Minimisation of habitat loss for Finless Porpoise

7b.8.3.16 In order to minimise the potential loss of important habitat for Finless Porpoise,substantial revision has been made on the layout plan of the breakwater. The revisedlayout of the breakwater has greatly reduced the size of the embayment area. Moreover,the newly proposed breakwater form (circular cells) has also reduced the size of thefootprint. As a result, the total habitat loss (including reclamation and embayment) forFinless Porpoise has reduced from 50 ha (original plan: Figure 7b.14), down to 31 ha(revised plan: Figure 7b.1).

Avoidance of peak season for Finless Porpoise occurrence

7b.8.3.17 In order to minimise potential acoustic disturbance from construction activities on FinlessPorpoise, construction works that may produce underwater acoustic disturbance shouldbe scheduled outside the months with peak Finless Porpoise occurrence (December toMay) (Table 2.5 under Section 2), including:





sheet piling works for construction of the remaining section of breakwater (Phase 3);

bored piling works for berth area (Phase 3); and

submarine cable installation works between Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha.

7b.8.3.18 Such works should be restricted within June to November. This approach would not onlyavoid the peak season for Finless Porpoise occurrence, the magnitude of impacts arisefrom acoustic disturbance would also be minimised.

Opt for quieter construction methods and plants

7b.8.3.19 In order to minimise underwater acoustic disturbance on Finless Porpoise, quieterconstruction methods and plants should be adopted:

Considering the sensitivity of marine mammals to underwater acoustic disturbance,instead of the previously proposed conventional breakwater and reclamationperipheral structure, which requires noisy piling works, the current circular cellsstructure for breakwater and reclamation peripheral structure is proposed. A quietersheet piling method using vibratory hammer or hydraulic impact hammer, would beadopted for the installation of circular cells for cellular cofferdam and northernbreakwater during Phase 1, and southern breakwater Phase 3;

Non-percussive bore piling method would be adopted for the installation of tubularpiles for the berth construction during Phase 3.

Monitored exclusion zones

7b.8.3.20 During the installation/re-installation/relocation process of floating type silt curtains, inorder to avoid the accidental entrance and entrapment of marine mammals within the siltcurtains, a monitored exclusion zone of 250 m radius from silt curtain should beimplemented. The exclusion zone should be closely monitored by an experienced marinemammal observer at least 30 minutes before the start of installation/re-installation/relocation process. If a marine mammal is noted within the exclusion zone, allmarine works should stop immediately and remain idle for 30 minutes, or until theexclusion zone is free from marine mammals.

7b.8.3.21 The experienced marine mammal observer should be well trained to detect marinemammals. Binoculars should be used to search the exclusion zone from an elevatedplatform with unobstructed visibility. The observer should also be independent from theproject proponent and has the power to call-off construction activities.

7b.8.3.22 In addition, as marine mammals cannot be effectively monitored within the proposedmonitored exclusion zone at night, or during adverse weather conditions (i.e. Beaufort 5or above, visibility of 300 meters or below), marine works should be avoided underweather conditions with low visibility.

Marine mammal watching plan

7b.8.3.23 Upon the completion of the installation/re-installation/relocation of floating type silt curtain,all marine works would be conducted within a fully enclosed environment within the siltcurtain (as shown in Appendix 5b.5), hence exclusion zone monitoring would no longerbe required. Subsequently, a marine mammal watching plan should be implemented.The plan should include regular inspection of silt curtains, and visual inspection of the



waters surrounded by the curtains. Special attention should be paid to Phase 2(reclamation) where the floating type still curtain would be opened occasionally for vesselaccess, leaving a temporary 50 m opening. An action plan should be devised to copewith any unpredicted incidents such as the case when marine mammals are found withinthe waters surrounded by the silt curtains.

Small openings at silt curtains

7b.8.3.24 In order to avoid the entrance of marine mammals into the works area through theopening at silt curtains for vessel access, and the subsequent potential impacts includingincrease in stress level in marine mammals due to underwater noise and chance ofcollision with working vessels, the openings for vessel access at the silt curtains shouldbe as small as possible to minimise the risk of accidental entrance.

Adoption of regular travel route

7b.8.3.25 In order to minimize the disruption on marine mammal’s behavioural pattern duringconstruction and operation phases, captains of all vessels should adopt regular travelroute, in order to minimize the chance of vessel collision with marine mammals, whichmay otherwise result in damage to health or mortality.

7b.8.3.26 The regular travel route should avoid areas with high sighting density of Finless Porpoiseas much as possible (Figure 7b.15), as indicated in the latest Monitoring of MarineMammals in Hong Kong Waters (AFCD, 2010c). With the adoption of regular travel route,potential alteration in behavioural pattern of marine mammals due to increase in marinetraffic is considered to be acceptable.

Vessel speed limit

7b.8.3.27 In order to minimise potential injury and mortality of marine mammals due to collision withvessels during construction (working vessels) and operation phases (4 round trips/day forMSW vessel, and 12 round trips/day for visitor/staff shuttle ferry), a speed limit of tenknots should be strictly enforced within areas with high density of Finless Porpoise, asidentified in the latest Monitoring of Marine Mammals in Hong Kong Waters (AFCD,2010c). The recommend area where speed limit should be adopted include the gridsQ30, Q31, and R31 (Figure 7b.15).

7b.8.3.28 The same speed limit has been enforced within the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chaumarine park, and adopted under the EIA-172/2009 Hong Kong - Zhuhai - Macao BridgeHong Kong Link Road (HyD, 2009c), where density of Chinese White Dolphin is high.Limitation on vessel speed limit has appeared to be effective in protecting dolphins fromvessel collision, as well as minimising underwater acoustic disturbance. With theadoption of these mitigation measures, the potential impact marine mammals due toinjury and mortality from vessel collision would be minimised to acceptable level.

7b.8.3.29 Passive acoustic monitoring and land-based theodolite monitoring surveys should beadopted to verify the predicted impacts and effectiveness of the proposed mitigationmeasures.

Training of staff

7b.8.3.30 In order to ensure that all staff, including captains of vessels, are aware of the guidelinesfor safe vessel operations in the presence of cetaceans during construction and operationphases, adequate trainings should be provided.



Specific measures to minimise impact on corals

Coral translocation

7b.8.3.31 According to the results of the existing REA surveys, all 198 coral colonies to be directlyaffected by the proposed Project were attached to movable rocks, which are less than 50cm in diameter. Translocation of the potentially affected corals is technically feasible toavoid direct loss. With the implementation of coral translocation prior to the constructionworks, no loss of coral colonies would be expected. Coral translocation should be carriedout during the winter season (November to March) in order to avoid the spawning seasonof corals (July to October) (Lam, 2000; Storlazzi, 2004). The health status of translocatedcorals should be regularly monitored after the translocation works.

7b.8.3.32 Prior to coral translocation, a more detailed baseline survey, including a coral mappingsurvey, is recommended to further confirm the exact number and location of coralcolonies within the potentially affected area. A more detailed coral translocation plan,including selection of suitable recipient site, plan for coral translocation, and event / actionplan for coral monitoring should be submitted upon approval of this Project, prior tocommencement of construction works. Advice from relevant governmental departments(e.g. AFCD) and professionals would be sought after, in order to identify a desirablelocation for the relocation of coral communities. Post-translocation monitoring on thetranslocated corals should also be considered.

Coral monitoring programme

7b.8.3.33 A coral monitoring programme is recommended to assess any adverse and unacceptableimpacts to the coral communities at the coasts of Shek Kwu Chau during construction ofthe Project. More details are provided in Section 7b.10.

Specific measures to minimise disturbance on breeding White-bellied Sea Eagle

Avoidance of noisy works during the breeding season of White-bellied Sea Eagle

7b.8.3.34 In order to minimise potential construction noise disturbance on WBSE to acceptablelevel, noisy construction works should be scheduled outside their breeding season(December to May) to minimise potential degradation in breeding ground quality andbreeding activities. Works that are recommended to adopt such measure include:



sheet piling works for construction of the remaining section of breakwater (Phase 3);and

bored piling works for berth area (Phase 3).

Opt for quieter construction methods and plants

7b.8.3.35 In order to minimise potential construction noise disturbance on WBSE, quieterconstruction methods and plants should be adopted. The recommended noise mitigationmeasures in Section 4b.8 should be implemented to minimise potential noise disturbanceto acceptable levels.



Restriction on vessel access near the nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle

7b.8.3.36 During construction and operation, in order to minimise disturbance on the existing WBSEnest, a pre-defined practical route to restrict vessel access near the nest should beadopted to keep vessels and boats as far away from the nest as possible.

White-bellied Sea Eagle monitoring programme

7b.8.3.37 A WBSE monitoring programme is recommended to assess any adverse andunacceptable impacts to the breeding activities of WBSE during construction andoperation of the Project. Monitoring surveys for WBSE would include pre-constructionphase (twice per month for duration of three months during their breeding seasonimmediately before the commencement of works), construction phase, and operationphase (two year after the completion of construction works).

7b.8.3.38 Surveys would be conducted twice per month during their breeding season (fromDecember to May); and once per month outside breeding season (June to November).More details on monitoring for WBSE are presented in the EM&A Manual.

Education of staff

7b.8.3.39 Staff, including captains of all vessels during construction and operation phases, shouldbe aware of the ecological importance of WBSE. Awareness should be raised amongstaff to minimise any intentional or unintentional disturbance to the nest.

Minimisation of glare disturbance

7b.8.3.40 To minimise glare disturbance on WBSE, which may cause disorientation of birds byinterfering with their magnetic compass, and disruption in behavioural patterns such asreproduction, fat storage and foraging pattern, any un-necessary outdoor lighting shouldbe avoided, and in-ward and down-ward pointing of lights should be adopted.

Opt for Quieter Construction Methods and Plants

7b.8.3.41 Disturbance to the nearby terrestrial habitat and the associated fauna should beminimised by adoption of quieter construction methods and plants wherever possible.

Minimisation of Artificial Lighting

7b.8.3.42 Disturbance from light pollution on fauna groups should be mitigated by avoidance ofunnecessary lighting, and shielding of lights to minimise glare disturbance to the nearbyhabitats.

Accidental Spillage

7b.8.3.43 Accidental spillage may eventually enter the marine environment, hence affecting thehabitat quality and associated fauna groups. Regular maintenance of vessels, vehiclesand equipments that may cause leakage and spillage should only be undertaken withinpre-designated areas, which are appropriately equipped to control the associateddischarges.

7b.8.3.44 Oils, fuels and chemicals should be contained in suitable containers, and only be usedand stored in designated areas which have pollution prevention facilities. All fuel tanksand storage areas should be sited on sealed areas in order to prevent spillage of fuelsand solvents to the nearby watercourses. All waste oils and fuels should be collected indesignated tanks prior to disposal. More measures for the prevention of accidentalspillage are recommended in Section 5b.8.



Sewage Effluent

7b.8.3.45 Temporary sanitary facilities, such as portable chemical toilets, should be employed on-site where necessary to handle sewage from the workforce.

Drainage and Construction Runoff

7b.8.3.46 Potential ecological impacts resulted from potential degradation of water quality due tounmitigated surface runoff could be minimised to acceptable level via the detailedmitigation measures in Section 5b.8. The following presents some of the mitigationmeasures:

On-site drainage system with implemented sedimentation control facilities.

Channels, earth bunds or sand bag barriers should be provided on site to direct stormwater to silt removal facilities.

Provision of embankment at boundaries of earthworks for flood protection.

Water pumped out from foundation piles must be discharged into silt removalfacilities.

During rainstorms, exposed slope/soil surfaces should be covered by tarpaulin orother means, as far as practicable.

Exposed soil surface should be minimized to reduce siltation and runoff.

Earthwork final surfaces should be well compacted. Subsequent permanent surfaceprotection should be immediately performed.

Open stockpiles of construction materials, and construction wastes on-site should becovered with tarpaulin or similar fabric during rainstorms.

General Construction Activities

7b.8.3.47 In order to avoid the entering of construction solid waste into the nearby habitats,construction solid waste should be collected, handled and disposed of properly. It isrecommended to clean the construction sites on a regular basis.

Pest Control

7b.8.3.48 Good waste management practices should be adopted at the IWMF in order to minimisethe risk of introduction of pest to the island:

Transportation of wastes in enclosed containers

Waste storage area should be well maintained and cleaned

Waste should only be disposed of at designated areas

Timely removal of the newly arrived waste

Removal of items that are capable of retaining water

Rapid clean up of any waste spillages

Maintenance of a tidy and clean site environment

Regular application of pest control

Education of staff the importance of site cleanliness



Minimisation of Habitat Degradation during Maintenance Dredging

7b.8.3.49 Depending on the seabed condition of the approach channel for marine vessels duringoperation phase of the IWMF, maintenance dredging may be required to ensure safeaccess. In order to avoid degradation in water quality due to elevation in SS anddispersion of sediment plume due to dredging works, it is recommended that any futuremaintenance dredging works should not be carried out within 100 m from the shore,similar to that of the dredging for anti-scouring protection layer during construction phase.All maintenance dredging works should also be carried out with the implementation of siltcurtain to control the dispersion of SS. The recommended dredging rate should be nogreater than 380 m3/day. As shown in Table 5b.8, the maximum SS elevation for suchdredging condition should be under 2.5 mg/L, which is below the allowed margin of 30%ambient level. No significant adverse impact on water quality and its associatedecological resources would be expected from the proposed maintenance dredging. Theextent of the recommended dredging is shown in Figure 5b.8.

7b.8.4 Compensation

Designation of Marine Park

7b.8.4.1 Loss of 31 ha of marine habitat would be permanently resulted from the reclamation andbreakwater construction at the southwestern waters of Shek Kwu Chau. The proposedworks area is of high ecological value, as it is identified as an important habitat for FinlessPorpoise; hence high level of adverse impact is predicted. As minimisation measures areexhausted, compensatory measure is therefore required.

7b.8.4.2 According to the Finless Porpoise data recorded between 2004 and 2009 (AFCD, 2010c),the waters between Shek Kwu Chau and Soko Islands is the nearest area to theproposed Project that has high sighting concentration of Finless Porpoise than the rest ofthe nearby waters. In addition, the extent of Finless Porpoise habitat is the mostcontinuous and connected to other nearby important habitats of marine mammals, i.e.Soko Islands, which has records of both Finless Porpoise and Chinese White Dolphin.

7b.8.4.3 The Project Proponent has made a firm commitment to seek to designate a marine parkof approximately 700 ha in the waters between Soko Islands and Shek Kwu Chau, inaccordance with the statutory process stipulated in the Marine Parks Ordinance, as acompensation measure for the habitat loss arising from the construction of the IWMF atan artificial island near SKC.

7b.8.4.4 The firm commitment to seek to designate the marine park, where incompatible activitieswould be regulated and proper management regime imposed in accordance with theMarine Park Ordinance, would significantly help conserve Finless Porpoise, and henceserve as an effective compensation measure for the permanent loss of Finless Porpoisehabitat arising from the project. The Project Proponent shall seek to complete thedesignation by 2018 to tie in with the operation of the IWMF at the artificial island nearSKC.

7b.8.4.5 A further study should be carried out to review relevant previous studies and collateavailable information on the ecological characters of the proposed area for marine parkdesignation; and review available survey data for Finless Porpoise, water quality,fisheries, marine traffic and planned development projects in the vicinity. Based on thefindings, ecological profiles of the proposed area for marine park designation should beestablished, and the extent and location of the proposed marine park be determined. Theadequacy of enhancement measures should also be reviewed.

7b.8.4.6 In addition, a management plan for the proposed marine park should be proposed,covering information on the responsible departments for operation and management(O&M) of the marine park, as well as the O&M duties of each of the departments



involved. Consultation with relevant government departments and stakeholders shouldbe conducted under the study. The study should be submitted to Director ofEnvironmental Protection (DEP) for approval before the commencement of constructionworks.

7b.8.4.7 The Project Proponent should provide assistance to AFCD during the process of themarine park designation.

7b.8.4.8 The firm commitment to designate the waters between Soko Islands and Shek Kwu Chauas a marine park, where the control and management of the marine park would be inaccordance with the Marine Parks Ordinance, is considered to be adequate to effectivelymitigate the permanent loss of important habitat of Finless Porpoise to acceptable level.

7b.8.5 Additional Enhancement or Precautionary Measures

Deployment of Artificial Reefs

7b.8.5.1 In addition to the habitat compensation measure for Finless Porpoise, deployment ofartificial reefs (ARs) is considered as an enhancement measure for the marine habitats.The creation of hard surfaces increases the complexity of marine habitats by offeringvarious micro-habitats, and provides opportunities for marine organisms to develop withinthe ARs. The development of such communities would subsequently attract smallpredators, i.e. fishes, which in turn bring positive impacts to Finless Porpoise by creatingfood sources. This enhancement feature would also bring positive impacts to thepotential important spawning and nursery ground for fisheries resources.

7b.8.5.2 The enhancement functions of ARs had been confirmed by previous studies (Wilson,2003b). It had been reported that juvenile fish were recorded after ARs were deployed.Biodiversity and abundance of fishes found around the deployed ARs were found to behigher than those observed in the nearby areas (ibid.). More than 220 fish species wererecorded at the ARs, which provide feeding ground, shelter, spawning and nursing areasfor their young (ibid.).

7b.8.5.3 ARs are proposed to be deployed within the proposed marine park under this Project.The exact location, dimension and type of ARs to be deployed are to be furtherinvestigated along with the further study of the proposed marine park under this Project.The proposed ARs would be deployed at the same time as the complete designation ofmarine park.

Release of Fish Fry at Artificial Reefs

7b.8.5.4 Release of fish fry at the proposed ARs, as well as the proposed marine park under thisstudy, should be considered as an enhancement measure for the fish resources in thenearby waters, and subsequently food sources for Finless Porpoise. The proposed ARswith various micro-habitats would have the potential to provide shelter and nurseryground for the released fish fry. The frequency and quantity of fry to be released shouldbe agreed by AFCD.

7b.8.6 Summaries of Ecological Impacts and Mitigation / Enhancement Measures

7b.8.6.1 Summaries of overall construction and operation impacts and mitigation / enhancementmeasures are presented in Table 7b.65-66 for Shek Kwu Chau, Table 7b.67-68 forCheung Sha, and Table 7b.69-70 for submarine cable alignment.



Table 7b.65 Overall Construction Stage Impact and Mitigation / Enhancement for Shek Kwu Chau

PotentialImpact Source Receiver

Nature of Impact Severity ofOverallImpact

Further mitigation /enhancement

requiredHabitatQuality Species affected Size /

abundance Duration Reversibility Magnitude

Loss ofimportanthabitat forFinlessPorpoise

Footprint of theIWMF and thepartiallyenclosedembayment

Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise Moderate Permanent Irreversible Low tomoderate

High Designation of amarine park,deployment of ARs,release of fish fry

Loss of subtidalhard bottomhabitat

Footprint of theIWMF

Subtidalhardbottomhabitat

Low tomoderate

1 common hardcoral and 7common soft coralspecies

0.2 ha ofhabitat loss.Corals aresmall sized andhad lowcoverage(<1%)

Permanent Irreversible Low Moderate Translocation of allcorals

Loss of subtidalsoft bottomhabitat


Benthichabitat

Low tomoderate

Commonbenthos

17.2 ha Permanent Irreversible Low tomoderate

Low Not required

Loss of fishspawning andnursery ground


Marinewaters

High Fisheriesresources

An insignificantamount of thetotal fishspawning andnursery groundin the southernwaters

Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required, butwould benefit fromdeployment of ARsand release of fishfry

Disturbance onmarine habitatsdue todegradation inwater quality

Dredging andother seabeddisturbingworks

Marinehabitats

Low tohigh

Corals, FinlessPorpoise, intertidalcommunities, softbottom benthiccommunities,horseshoe crab,fish spawning andnursery ground,avifauna that utilizethe marine habitatsas feeding ground

Localised Temporary Reversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Water qualitymitigation measures








Underwateracousticdisturbancefromconstructionwork

Sheet piling,bored piling

Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise High Temporary Reversible Moderate Low tomoderate

Avoidance of pilingworks during thepeak season forFinless Porpoiseoccurrence

Increase invesseltraffic

Workingvessels

Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise High Temporary Reversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Vessel speedrestrictions andadoption of regulartravelroute

Trapping ofmarinemammals dueto installation/re-installation/relocation of siltcurtains

Silt curtains Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise High Temporary Reversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Monitored exclusionzone, marinemammal watchingplan

Release ofcontaminantsduringTransportationand disposal ofdredgedsediments

Dredgedsediments

Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise,corals, intertidalcommunities, softbottom benthiccommunities,horseshoe crab,fish spawning andnursery ground

Localised Temporary Reversible Low Insignificant Not required

Extraction andplacement of fillmaterials

Fill sedimentsfor circular cells

Marinewaters


Localised Temporary Reversible Low Low Water qualitymitigation measures








Disturbance onintertidal habitat

Humandisturbance,marine traffic,constructionnoise, artificiallighting

Intertidalhabitat

Low Avifauna Localised Temporary Reversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Noise mitigationmeasures

Disturbance oncoastalshrublandhabitat

Workingvessels,constructionnoise, artificiallighting

Coastalshrublandhabitat

Moderate Wildlife that utilisethe coastalshrubland


Low tomoderate

Noise mitigationmeasures,minimisation ofglare disturbance

Disturbance onWhite-belliedSea Eagle

Workingvessels,constructionnoise, artificiallighting


Moderate White-bellied SeaEagle, nest ofWhite-bellied SeaEagle

1 activebreeding nest

Temporary Reversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Avoidance of noisyworks during thebreeding season ofWBSE, noisemitigationmeasures,minimisation ofglare disturbance

Drainage andconstruction siterunoff

Terrestrialconstructionworks

Marinewaters


Localised Temporary Reversible Low Low tomoderate

Water qualitymitigation measures

Accidentalspillage ofchemicals

Terrestrialconstructionworks

Marinewaters


Localised Temporary Reversible Low Low Adoption of goodsite practise








Sewage effluentdischarge

Workforce Marinewaters


Localised Temporary Reversible Low Low Adoption of goodsite practise

Table 7b.66 Overall Operation Stage Impact and Mitigation / Enhancement for Shek Kwu Chau






Permanent lossof habitat formarinemammals


Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise Moderate Permanent Irreversible High High Designation of amarine park,deployment of ARs,release of fish fry

Permanent lossof subtidal hardbottom habitat


Subtidalhard bottomhabitat

Low tomoderate

1 common hardcoral and 7common soft coralspecies. Smallsized and lowcoverage (<1%)

0.2 ha ofhabitat loss.

Permanent Irreversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Translocation of allcorals within directlyaffected area

Permanent lossof subtidal softbottom habitat


Benthichabitat

Low tomoderate

Commonbenthos

17.2 ha Permanent Irreversible Low Low Not required

Permanent lossof fish spawningand nurseryground


Marinewaters

High Fisheriesresources

An insignificantamount of thetotal fishspawning andnurserygrounds in thesouthernwaters

Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant No, but would benefitfrom deployment ofARs and release offish fry








Alteration inflow regime


Marinewaters

High Corals Localised Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required

Alteration insedimentationpattern

Embaymentwithinbreakwater

Marinewaters

High Corals Localised Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required

Maintenancedredging

Dredging works Marinewaters



Moderate Water qualitymitigation measures

Discharge ofsaline waterfromdesalinationplant at seawalloutfall

DesalinationPlant

Marinewaters

High Marine fauna,especially corals

Localised Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required

Degradation ofwater quality infish spawningand nurseryground

Discharge ofuntreatedsewage, brinewater, biocides/ anti-foulingchemicals;temperaturerise indischarge

Marinewaters

High Fish eggs andjuvenile fishes

Localised Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required








Entrainmentandimpingement offish eggs andjuvenile fishes

Water intakepoint for watersupply at thedesalinationplant

Marinewaters

High Fish eggs andjuvenile fishes

Localised Permanent Irreversible Low Low Not required

Increase inmarine traffic

MSW barge,visitor/staffshuttle ferry

Marinewaters

High Finless Porpoise 4 roundtrips/day forMSW barge,and 12 roundtrips/day forvisitor/staffshuttle ferry


Low tomoderate

Vessel speedrestrictions andadoption of regulartravelroute

Trapping ofmarine mammalwithin thechannel behindthe IWMF

Channelbetwen theIWMF structureand Shek KwuChau shore

Coastalmarinewaters

High Finless Porpoise 10-40 m inwidth, and 400m in length

Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Land-basedmonitoring by sitestaff

Light Pollutionby artificialLighting

Artificial lights Southwestfacinghillsideshrubland

Low tomoderate

Residence fauna Southwestfacing hillsideshrubland


Low tomoderate

Avoidance ofunnecessary lighting,shielding of lights

Disturbance onthe nest ofWhite-belliedSea Eagle

Increase inmarine traffic,operationnoise, artificiallight

Southwestfacinghillsideshrubland

Low tomoderate

Nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle

Southwestfacing hillsideshrubland


Low tomoderate

Avoidance ofunnecessary lighting,shielding of lights,restriction on vesselaccess near the nest,education of staff,monitoringprogramme








Physical barrierfor avifauna

The whole ofthe IWMFstructure

Avifauna N/A Avifauna thatutilises the shoreof Shek Kwu Chau

Structureabove watersurface 15.9ha, height ofbuildings rangebetween 5-50m, stack height150 m

Permanent Irreversible Low Low Not required

Operation noisedisturbance

Plants withinthe IWMF,vessels

Hillsideshrubland,intertidalhabitat

Moderateforshrubland, low tomoderateforintertidalhabitat

Avifauna Habitats facingthe IWMF

Permanent Irreversible Low Low Not required

Air and dustemission

Air emissionfrom the stacksof incinerationprocess, andthe dustreleased fromthe wastereception halls

Terrestrialfauna

N/A Terrestrial fauna,including avifaunathat utilise thespace above stack

N/A Permanent Irreversible Low Low Air quality mitigationmeasures

Heat and fumeexhaust

Stack ofincinerationplant

Avifauna N/A Avifauna thatutilise the spaceabove stack

Localised Permanent Irreversible Low Low Not required

Introduction ofpest duringtransportationof waste

Wastestransportedfrom otherareas in HongKong

Shek KwuChau

N/A Flora and fauna atShek Kwu Chau

N/A Permanent Irreversible Low Low Waste managementmitigation measures

Chemicalspillages arisingfrom vehicle /vessel accident

Vehicles andvessels

Marinewaters

High Marine fauna N/A Permanent Irreversible Low tomoderate

Low tomoderate

Good site practices



Table 7b.67 Overall Construction Stage Impact and Mitigation / Enhancement for Cheung Sha

Potential Impact Source ReceiverNature of Impact Severity of

OverallImpact




Loss of intertidalhabitat

Footprint ofsubmarinecable landingportal

Rockyshore andbenthichabitat

Low tomoderate

Common intertidaland benthic species

Total:20 m2 Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required

Loss of subtidalhabitat

Footprint ofsubmarinecable landingportal

Benthichabitat

Low Common benthos Permanent Irreversible Low Insignificant Not required

Loss of backshorevegetated area

Works area Backshoreshrubland

Low Common backshorevegetation

750 m2 Temporary Reversible Low Low Not required

Disturbance onmarine habitatsdue todegradation inwater quality

Open cutmethod usingdredger

Coastalwaters

Low No species ofconservationimportant


Insignificant Water qualitymitigation measure

Disturbance oncoastal shrublandhabitat

Constructionnoise, humanactivities


Low Avifauna N/A Temporary Reversible Low Low Not required

Table 7b.68 Overall Operation Stage Impact and Mitigation / Enhancement for Cheung Sha


Nature of Impact Severityof Overall

Impact

Further mitigation/ enhancement

requiredHabitatQuality

Speciesaffected

Size /abundance Duration Reversibility Magnitude

None N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A



Table 7b.69 Overall Construction Stage Impact and Mitigation / Enhancement for Submarine Cable Alignment



Impact



Speciesaffected


Loss ofsubtidal softbottom habitat

Submarinecable laying

Benthichabitat

Low tomoderate

Commonbenthos

17,400 m2 Temporary Reversible Low Low Not required

Increase inmarine trafficandunderwateracoustic

Submarinecable laying

Marinewaters

High FinlessPorpoise

17,400 m2 Temporary Reversible Low Low tomoderate

Scheduling ofworks outside thepeak season forFinless Porpoiseoccurrence

Table 7b.70 Overall Operation Stage Impact and Mitigation / Enhancement for Submarine Cable Alignment



Impact



Speciesaffected


None N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A



7b.9 Evaluation of Residual Impacts

7b.9.1 Shek Kwu Chau

Permanent Loss of Finless Porpoise Habitat

7b.9.1.1 A total loss of approximately 31 ha of important habitat for Finless Porpoise is predicted,as the whole area behind the proposed breakwater is assumed to become permanentlyinaccessible for Finless Porpoise upon completion of the Project.

7b.9.1.2 To mitigate the loss, the Project Proponent has made a firm commitment to seek todesignate the waters between Soko Islands and Shek Kwu Chau and as a marine park, inaccordance with the statutory process stipulated in the Marine Parks Ordinance. Withsuch commitment implemented, the residual impact on Finless Porpoise due topermanent loss of important habitat is considered to be acceptable.

Permanent Loss of Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat

7b.9.1.3 The reclamation footprint would result in a permanent loss of 0.2 ha of subtidal hardbottom habitat, where 1 common hard coral and 7 common soft coral species wererecorded. With the translocation of corals, no direct loss of corals would be resulted. Theresidual impact of permanent loss of subtidal hard bottom habitat is consideredacceptable.

Permanent Loss of Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat

7b.9.1.4 The permanent loss of 17.2 ha of subtidal hard bottom habitat is considered acceptableas the habitat is considered to be of limited ecological concern, and that only commonbenthos species were recorded.

Permanent Loss of Fish Spawning and Nursery Grounds

7b.9.1.5 The permanent loss of 15.9 ha of fish spawning and nursery grounds is consideredacceptable as the loss only constitute an insignificant portion of total fish spawning andnursery ground in the southern waters, and a recent study has suggested that there wasno observable difference in fish larvae and egg densities between the identified spawningand nursery grounds at southern waters of Hong Kong, and the waters at WesternLantau, which was not identified to be important spawning and nursery grounds (CLP,2006).

Abandonment of Nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle

7b.9.1.6 Noting the recordable breeding success of the WBSE nest at Shek Kwu Chau since 2006,and the current undisturbed nature of the location of the nest; with the implementation ofthe proposed mitigation measures during construction and operation phases, thepossibility of WBSE nest abandonment still remains.

7b.9.1.7 Other than the external disturbances, it should also be taken into consideration that nestabandonment could also be caused by the innate behavioural pattern of White-belliedSea Eagle. According to the long term monitoring surveys conducted by AFCD, breedingsuccess of White-bellied Sea Eagle fluctuates naturally over time (AFCD, 2010a). Thenumber of successful breeding pairs ranged from 14.3% to 87.5% between the surveyperiod of 2007/2008 and 2008/2009 (ibid.). The low breeding success rate (14.3%) in2007/2008 was considered to be caused by a prolonged exceptionally cold period inFebruary 2008 during their core breeding season (ibid.). Such event indicates that otherthan human induced disturbances, natural occurring events may also have an effect onthe behaviour of White-bellied Sea Eagle.



7b.9.1.8 Considering that WBSE is a highly mobile species with large territory size, and that similarhabitat is available in the vicinity (i.e. the rest of hillside coastal shrubland at Shek KwuChau, and other remote islands e.g. Soko Island, Hei Ling Chau); WBSE could utiliseother areas in the vicinity. Residual impact on the nest of WBSE is considered to beacceptable.

Degradation of Marine Habitat

7b.9.1.9 With the adoption of the proposed mitigation measures, no unacceptable residual impactson marine habitats due to degradation in water quality, increase in underwater acousticdisturbance, and increase in vessel number during construction and operation phases arepredicted.

Overall Residual Impacts

7b.9.1.10 With the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, no unacceptable residualimpacts on marine and terrestrial habitats and their associated flora and fauna groups areexpected.

Additional Enhancement Measure

7b.9.1.11 Additional marine habitat enhancement measures, including deployment of artificial reefsand release of fish fry at artificial reefs, would be adopted. Such measures would bringadditional positive long term impact to the marine habitats, further conserving marinefauna and their habitat.

7b.9.2 Cheung Sha

Permanent Loss of intertidal and subtidal habitats

7b.9.2.1 Permanent loss of a total of 20 m2 of intertidal and subtidal habitats is consideredacceptable as both habitats are considered to be of limited ecological concern and theloss is small.

Temporary Loss of backshore vegetated area

7b.9.2.2 A temporary loss of 750 m2 of backshore vegetated area at Cheung Sha is consideredacceptable as only common backshore vegetation was recorded in the directly affectedarea.


7b.9.2.3 With the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, no unacceptable residualimpacts on marine and terrestrial habitats and their associated flora and fauna groups areexpected.

7b.9.3 Along the Cable Alignment

Temporary Loss of subtidal soft bottom habitat

7b.9.3.1 The temporary loss of 17,400 m2 of subtidal soft bottom habitat is considered acceptableas only common benthos species were recorded, the habitat is considered to be of limitedecological concern.


7b.9.3.2 With the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, no unacceptable residualimpacts on marine habitats and their associated fauna groups are expected.



7b.10 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

7b.10.1 General

7b.10.1.1 Ecological monitoring and audit programmes for Finless Porpoise, corals and White-bellied Sea Eagle are recommended:

7b.10.2 Finless Porpoise Monitoring

Vessel-based Line Transect Survey

7b.10.2.1 The vessel-based line transect survey would focus on the monitoring of Finless Porpoise,as the study area has been identified as a hotspot for this species. The monitoringprogramme would cover the survey area as adopted during the EIA study, as well as theproposed marine park for the mitigation of loss of important habitat for Finless Porpoise.The monitoring would verify the predicted impacts, and examine whether the mitigationmeasures recommended in Section 7b.8 have been effectively implemented to protectmarine mammals from negative impacts from construction activities.

7b.10.2.2 The marine mammal monitoring programme should cover pre-construction phase,construction phase, and operation phase. The survey methodology should remain thesame as that adopted during the EIA study, in order to allow fair comparison of marinemammal monitoring results.

7b.10.2.3 Regular line-transect surveys should be conducted to collect data for the analysis ofdistribution, encounter rate, density and habitat use of both porpoises and dolphins. Afteranalysis of the data, the results would allow the detection of any changes of their usage ofhabitat, in response to the proposed construction works.

Active Acoustic Monitoring

7b.10.2.4 Active acoustic monitoring aims to study the acoustic behaviour of Finless Porpoise inrelation to the presence and absence of vessels, and their associated underwateracoustic disturbance. Hydrophones should be deployed from stationary boat to recordnoise data from vessels and Finless Porpoise. Approximately 30 days of field workshould be carried out during the peak occurrence period of Finless Porpoise (Decemberto May). With the recorded data, analysis on whether presence of, and distance fromvessel traffic would cause acoustic behavioural changes in Finless Porpoise, or changesin use of frequency range etc. could be determined. The monitoring results should beused to verify the predicted impacts and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigationmeasures.

7b.10.2.5 Details of the active acoustic monitoring methodology and frequency should be agreedwith AFCD.

Passive Acoustic Monitoring

7b.10.2.6 Passive acoustic monitoring aims to study the utilisation of an area by Finless Porpoise.An array of automated static porpoise detectors (e.g. C-POD) should be deployed atdifferent locations within and outside the Project Area to detect the unique ultra-highfrequency sounds produced by Finless Porpoise during pre-construction, construction andoperation phases. Porpoise detectors would be left on-site over the monitoring period,the utilisation of the area by Finless Porpoise would be monitored 24-hous a day andunder any weather conditions. The monitoring results should be used to verify thepredicted impacts and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures.

7b.10.2.7 The number, position, and duration of the porpoise detectors deployment should beagreed with AFCD.



Land-based Theodolite Tracking

7b.10.2.8 The objective of the land-based theodolite tracking of Finless Porpoise is to study theirmovement and behavioural pattern in response to the presence of marine vessels andtheir associated underwater acoustic disturbance within and around the Project Area.

7b.10.2.9 With a well-positioned theodolite from vantage points at a height above the area to bemonitored, the movement and behavioural patterns of marine mammals could bemonitored. The survey should cover pre-construction phase to obtain baseline movementand behavioural pattern of Finless Porpoise within and near the Project Area, andconstruction and operation phases to verify the predicted marine traffic impacts on FinlessPorpoise, as well as the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures.

7b.10.2.10 Details of the land-based theodolite tracking methodology and frequency should beagreed with AFCD.

Exclusion Zone Monitoring

7b.10.2.11 Results of the monitoring of exclusion zones during the installation/re-installation/relocation process of floating type silt curtains should be included in the EM&Areport, in order to avoid the accidental entrapment of marine mammals within the siltcurtains. An action plan for when marine mammals are found within the waters enclosedby the silt curtains should be included in the EM&A Manual.

Marine mammal watching plan

7b.10.2.12 Upon the completion of floating type silt curtain installation/re-installation/relocation, allmarine works would be conducted within a fully enclosed environment within the siltcurtain (as shown in Appendix 5b.5), hence exclusion zone monitoring would no longerbe required. Subsequently, a marine mammal watching plan would be implemented. Theplan would include regular inspection of silt curtains, and visual inspection of the waterssurrounded by the curtains. Special attention would be paid to Phase 2 (reclamation)where the floating type still curtain would be opened occasionally for vessel access,leaving a temporary 50 m opening. An action plan should be devised to cope with anyunpredicted incidents such as the case when marine mammals are found within thewaters surrounded by the silt curtains.

Land-based Monitoring of Channel between the IWMF and Shek Kwu Chau

7b.10.2.13 Although the trapping of marine mammals within the channel is predicted to be unlikely;however in view of their conservation importance, precautionary land-based monitoring ofchannel for potential trapping of marine mammals by site staff during operation phaseshould be adopted to verify the impact predication.

7b.10.3 Coral Monitoring

7b.10.3.1 A coral monitoring programme is recommended to assess any adverse and unacceptableindirect impacts to the coral communities at the coasts of Shek Kwu Chau duringconstruction of the Project. The coral monitoring programme should comprise 3 phases:pre-construction phase (or baseline phase), construction phase, and operation phase(one year after the completion of construction works).

7b.10.3.2 Corals located within areas likely to be affected by the Project, translocated corals, andcorals at control sites (areas unlikely to be affected by SS elevation) should be chosen(including the location(s) where the uncommon Coscinaraea n sp. was found), in order toidentity any adverse indirect impact from the marine works. The size, percentage coverand health condition of corals at representative transects should be recorded during eachmonitoring.



7b.10.3.3 A more detailed coral monitoring plan, including which coral species and colonies to bemonitored, methodology, monitoring frequency, and event and action plan for coralmonitoring should be submitted upon approval of this Project, prior to commencement ofconstruction works. Advice from relevant government departments (e.g. AFCD) would besought after, in order to identify an effective practice for coral monitoring.

7b.10.4 White-bellied Sea Eagle Monitoring

7b.10.4.1 A monitoring programme is recommended for WBSE, especially for the active breedingnest, located 60 m above ground within a hillside shrubland habitat, 130 m in-land fromshore, and about 550 m away from the proposed reclaimed land. The monitoringprogramme should comprise pre-construction phase, construction phase, and post-construction phase.

7b.10.4.2 Information to be collected should include behaviour (e.g. foraging, territory fending),breeding activity, and any observable response to disturbances. Any observableresponses to disturbances should be assessed, taking into account of the human inducedactivities occurring at the time, as well as other disturbances such as weather condition,or invasion by other fauna species.

7b.10.4.3 A more detailed White-bellied Sea Eagle monitoring programme, including pre-construction baseline survey, confirmation of location and status of breeding nest,commencement dates for monitoring, and detailed survey methodology in relation to thelatest location of breeding nest, etc., should be submitted prior to commencement ofconstruction works. Advice from relevant government departments (e.g. AFCD) would besought after, in order to identify an effective practice for monitoring of nesting White-bellied Sea Eagle.

7b.10.5 Water Quality Monitoring and Audit

7b.10.5.1 To further monitor the potential water quality impact on the nearby marine ecologicalsensitive receivers, a water quality monitoring and audit programme has beenrecommended (Section 5b). Part of the monitoring stations would be located near coralsites (including where the uncommon Coscinaraea n sp. was recorded), in order to allowa close monitoring of relationship between water quality and corals. Details of watermonitoring programme are discussed in the EM&A Manual.

7b.11 Conclusion

7b.11.1.1 The proposed Project Site is an important habitat for Finless Porpoise (Neophocaenaphocaenoides), a species of conservation interest, due to their high occurrence in thearea. A total of 15 species of corals, including one uncommon species, have beenidentified along the shore of Shek Kwu Chau within and in the vicinity of the Project Site.Breeding of White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), an uncommon specieswith limited number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong, had been recorded near theproposed reclamation area.

7b.11.1.2 The key potential direct impact identified under the Project include permanent loss of 31ha of important habitat for Finless Porpoise, covering the reclamation and the embaymentarea within breakwater. Mitigation measures proposed to mitigate the loss include firmcommitment from the Project Proponent to seek to designate a marine park ofapproximately 700 ha in the waters between Soko Islands and Shek Kwu Chau, inaccordance with the statutory process stipulated in the Marine Parks Ordinance by 2018,in order to tie in with the operation of the IWMF at the artificial island near SKC.Deployment of artificial reef and release of fish fry have also been proposed as additionalenhancement measures for the loss of important habitat for Finless Porpoise andfisheries resources. For the indirect impacts on Finless Porpoise, such as acousticdisturbance, collision with vessels, and alteration of behavioural pattern during



construction and operation phases, mitigation measures proposed include avoidance ofnoisy works during peak Finless Porpoise season, monitoring of exclusion zone, marinemammal watching plan, adoption of regular traffic route, and limitation of vessel speed toten knots at areas with high Finless Porpoise sighting density. With the implementation ofthe proposed mitigation measures, adverse impacts on Finless Porpoise would bemitigated to acceptable level.

7b.11.1.3 A total of 198 coral colonies of small sizes and low coverage (<1%), comprising 1 hardcoral and 7 octocoral species, within the proposed reclamation area may be directlyaffected. While all the corals to be affected were recorded to be translocatable, coraltranslocation has been recommended to avoid any direct loss. Other corals that arelocated along the shore of Shek Kwu Chau may be indirectly affected by the potentialelevation in suspended solid level during construction phase, which could be effectivelymitigated through water quality measures. With the implementation of the proposedmeasures, unacceptable impacts on corals are not anticipated.

7b.11.1.4 The White-bellied Sea Eagle breeding pair and their nest may receive indirectdisturbances during construction and operation phases of the IWMF. Such impacts couldbe mitigated through avoidance of noisy works during the breeding season of White-bellied Sea Eagle, restriction of vessel access near the nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle,and avoidance of unnecessary lighting and provision of shielding for lights to minimiseglare disturbance from the IWMF. Potential impacts on White-bellied Sea Eagle arehence minimized to acceptable level.

7b.11.1.5 Besides the above marine works, the construction of the Project also involves laying ofsubmarine cables between Shek Kwu Chau and Cheung Sha as well as the constructionof a landing portal at Cheung Sha. The benthos communities of the temporarily affectedareas are expected to recolonise the seabed areas after the short period of submarinecable laying operation (about 20 working days). In view of the low to moderate ecologicalvalue of the subtidal habitats and temporary nature of the impact, the potential impact onsubtidal habitat and the associated benthos communities due to submarine cable layingworks is considered to be low. Moreover, considering the localized nature of sedimentplume and short term duration of the works, as well as the natural adaption of fish, nosignificant impacts are expected on the potential fish spawning and nursery ground due tothe submarine cable laying works. For the construction of Cheung Sha landing portal,considering the small scale of landing portal works, existing turbid condition, and absenceof ecological sensitive receiver along the shoreline, with the adoption of good site practiceand water quality control measures, potential impact on ecological resources duringconstruction of Cheung Sha portal is considered to be acceptable.

7b.11.1.6 Monitoring programmes for Finless Porpoise, coral colonies, and White-bellied Sea Eaglehave also been recommended to assess the effectiveness of the proposed mitigationmeasures. With the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures and theEM&A programme, adverse ecological impacts due to the construction and operation ofthe proposed Project would be minimised to acceptable levels.

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